The Newfoundland-Labrador fixed link refers to various proposals for constructing a fixed link consisting of bridges, tunnels, and/or causeways across the Strait of Belle Isle, connecting the province of Newfoundland and Labrador's mainland Labrador region with the island of Newfoundland. This strait has a minimum width of 17.4 km (10.8 mi).
The idea was conceived by mining engineer Tom Kierans during the early 1970s as a means to bring hydroelectricity from Churchill Falls to the island part of the province. Approximately $75 million was spent by the provincial government on constructing such a utility tunnel but the project was cancelled in 1975.
Since the opening of the Confederation Bridge in 1997, which hooked Prince Edward Island to the Trans-Canada Highway, the island of Newfoundland is the most populous portion of Atlantic Canada, and the largest land mass outside the Arctic Islands, not directly connected by fixed link to the Canadian mainland. The Confederation Bridge is approximately 12.9 km (8.0 mi) long, significantly shorter than the Newfoundland-Labrador link, and crosses the Abegweit Passage, a shallower and calmer body of water than the Strait of Belle Isle.
In the lead-up to the October 2003 provincial election, Progressive Conservative leader Danny Williams promised to fund a feasibility study to placate link supporters.
Read more about Newfoundland-Labrador Fixed Link: 2004 Feasibility Study, Highway Connections, Criticism of The Project
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