Camping and construction seasons converge in Terra Nova National Park

Camping and construction are going hand in hand this summer at Terra Nova National Park, as crews undertake a series of upgrades to improve campgrounds, trails, and the park's stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway.

The most noticeable work began May 9: the beginning of a two-yearproject to build passing and climbinglanes at 13 spots along the TCH, to help improve traffic flow through the park.

• 'Extensive work,' $27M funding announced for TCH in Terra Nova National Park

"If you're passing through or stopping to visit, you will expect some delays. And what we're asking people is just plan ahead, so you're prepared for that. And be patientadhere to all the construction signs," Karen Wolfrey, the park's visitor experience manager, told CBC Radio's Central Morning Show.

The roadwork is a $27-million investment from the federal government, part of a $3-billion spending plan to upgrade aging infrastructurefor national parks and historic sites across Canada.

'A whole new place'

Terra Nova has also received funding to refurbish some campsites,washroom and kitchen areas and visitor kiosks.

"Ithink no matter where you go, you'll see some nice improvements and changes to the park," said Wolfrey.

The park's trail network is also getting some TLC, with trails being tidied up, infrastructure such as bridges repaired or replaced, and a new viewing platform installed at Ochre Hill.

"If you are coming into the park throughout the summer, you'll see peopleworking on the trail," said Wolfrey.

And while there are definitely disruptions in store for this summer's camping season, Wolfrey said it's short term pain.

"Next year when you return, it will be like a whole new place."