Improving Highway Infrastructure in Northwestern Ontario
Ontario Government Strengthening Northern Economy, Creating Jobs
Ontario is creating 395 jobs and improving vital highway infrastructure in northwestern Ontario with key investments under the Northern Highways Program.
“Local residents, visitors and industries benefit from the expansion and improvement of vital transportation links undertaken through our Northern Highways Program. I am proud of the significant progress we have made to improve our roads and bridges. It is part of our vision for a stronger economy and I am pleased that our government will continue to ensure these investments remain a priority, especially in Northern Ontario.” Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines
The improvements include:
- Repaving 23.5 kilometres and making a minor realignment on Highway 17 west from Highway 622 to Highway 603 at Borups Corners. Miller Northwest has been awarded the $7.7-million contract. Work has begun with completion scheduled for fall 2014.
- Repaving 28.2 kilometres and revising a curve on Highway 17 east of the junction of Highway 71 near Kenora. Pioneer Construction has been awarded the $6.7-million contract. Work has begun with completion scheduled for fall 2014.
- Repaving 23.1 kilometres on Highway 11 west of Jellicoe toward Beardmore. Miller Paving has been awarded the $5.3-million contract. Work has begun with completion scheduled for fall 2014.
- Paving, grading and replacing the Little Grassy River bridge north of Highway 600; the Little Grassy River bridge east of Highway 621; and Little Grassy River culverts, west of Highway 621 near Rainy River. The Sharp Group has been awarded the $2.9-million contract. Work is underway and completion is scheduled for fall 2014.
- Repaving 20.6 kilometres on Highway 61 north from the Canada-US border toward Thunder Bay. Pioneer Construction has been awarded the $9.7-million contract. Work has begun with completion scheduled for 2015.
- Repaving 16.3 kilometres on Highway 11 east of Atikokan, including Highway 11B. Pioneer Construction has been awarded the $7.2-million contract. Work will begin shortly with completion scheduled for 2015.
Investing in roads, highways and bridges is part of the government’s plan to invest in people, build modern infrastructure and support a dynamic and innovative business climate.
“This announcement signifies our government’s commitment to improving infrastructure across the province, which creates jobs and strengthens our economy. Projects such as these will help ensure our roads and bridges are safe and in good condition for years to come.” Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation
Quick Facts
- Since 2003, the Ontario government has invested $4.6 billion in northern highways.
- Since 2003, the province has improved 3,969 kilometres of highway and 255 bridges, and constructed 543 kilometres of new four-lane highway along with 121 new bridges throughout Northern Ontario.
