A group of contractors gathered at the Lord Nelson Hotel in Halifax to address these challenges. Led by H.W.L. Doane and Gus Comeau, the meeting brought together key figures who would shape the future of road building in Nova Scotia.

That same day, the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association was officially established to support contractors, improve communication with the Department of Highways, and raise industry standards through collaboration and shared knowledge.

The Association held its first official Board meeting and established two membership categories:

• Contractors actively engaged in road building
• Suppliers providing materials and equipment

Initial membership included 14 contractors and 2 associate members.

Historical Record:
On December 10, 1947, the Association elected its first directors:
President, H.W.L Doane; Vice-Presidents, D.F. MacIsaac and W.P. Bickle; Secreatry-Treasurer, G. Comeau; Executive Members, E.A. MacMillan, D.G. Norman, M.H. McManus, R.E. Parsons, and D.A. Chisholm. Four committees were also established: Membership, Contracts, Public Relations, and Organization.

From the outset, members worked to improve tendering timelines, clarify contract specifications, and strengthen collaboration with the Department of Highways. A contract committee was formed to help bridge gaps between contractors and government.

Held at the Lord Nelson Hotel, the first annual meeting brought together contractors, engineers, and industry leaders—setting the tone for a long-standing tradition of collaboration.

In partnership with the Nova Scotia Accident Prevention Association, the NSRBA introduced an annual safety competition, reinforcing a commitment to safety and professionalism across the industry.

Membership continued to grow, and a strong identity took shape, establishing the Association as a voice for Nova Scotia-based companies building the province’s future.