THUNDER BAY – “Investments through our government’s Northern Highways Program ensure that transportation infrastructure across Northern Ontario is expanded and improved. Through the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario we are renewing and expanding modern transportation in the North,” said Minister Michael Gravelle, Northern Development and Mines.
Through the Northern Highways Program, the province is investing a total of $39.2 million in four projects to rehabilitate:
- 23.6 kilometres of Highway 11 from east of the Fort Frances town limits
- 39.9 kilometres of Highway 105 from 48 kilometres north of the Highway 17 junction at Vermilion Bay
- 29.2 kilometres of Highway 17 from west of Peninsula Road in Marathon
- 28.6 kilometres of Highway 71 south from the Nestor Falls bridge
Work on all projects will begin this spring, with expected completion by fall 2016.
Improving highway infrastructure is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario’s history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.
Quick Facts
- In 2016-17 Ontario is investing $550 million in highway infrastructure projects across the North through the Northern Highways Program.
- Miller Northwest has been awarded the $16.6-million contract for Highway 105.
- Pioneer Construction Inc. has been awarded the $7.3-million contract for Highway 11, the $8.1-million contract for Highway 17, and the $7.2-million contract for Highway 71
- Investing in roads, highways and bridges is part of the Ontario government’s Growth Plan for Northern Ontario [pdf].
“Our government is investing in the critical transportation infrastructure that families and businesses in Northern Ontario rely on daily. Expanding and improving our northern highway network is necessary for helping our economy grow and creating jobs in the North, and is proof that Premier Kathleen Wynne and our government are focused on building Ontario up,” commented Steven Del Duca the Minister of Transportation.
The news helps Fort Frances and Marathon.
“With the heavy traffic from locals and from visitors drawn by the spectacular beauty and recreation opportunities in our area, we depend on having our highways in good condition. My thanks to the province for this latest work on Highway 11 at Fort Frances,” stated Roy Avis, Mayor, Town of Fort Frances.
“I want to thank the provincial government for its latest investment in Highway 17 in our area that will help enhance safety on this busy route,” commented Rick Dumas, Mayor, Town of Marathon.
