Ontario is continuing to improve northern highway infrastructure that will promote economic development and job creation.
The award of two major highway contracts in Timiskaming-Cochrane, part of the 2009-10 Northern Highways Program, will improve traffic flow and safety on these routes. They will create about 100 direct and indirect jobs.
One project will rehabilitate more than 22 kilometres of Highway 64 north of Noelville. Work will include resurfacing, grading, culvert replacement and the rehabilitation of the Wolseley River and West Arm bridges. Pioneer Construction of Sudbury has been awarded the $9.4-million contract. Completion of the project is expected in November 2010.
Another project will improve Highway 66 near Kenogami Lake. Work will include curve widening, frost heave repairs, guide rail replacements and culvert rehabilitations and replacements. Pederson Construction has been awarded the $4.8-million contract. Completion of the project is expected this November.
QUOTES
“Our government’s continuing commitment to improving highway infrastructure throughout Timiskaming-Cochrane will benefit all people who drive along these important routes.”
-David Ramsay, MPP for Timiskaming-Cochrane.
“The Ontario government continues investing in the improved safety of important northern transportation infrastructure to attract new economic activity to the region.”
- Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry.
“Improving transportation infrastructure will generate construction jobs and encourage economic growth in the region.”
- Jim Bradley, Minister of Transportation.
QUICK FACTS
§The Ontario budget has committed a record $648 million in northern highways in 2009-2010.
§In 2008-09 investments in Ontario’s highway infrastructure created an estimated 13,000 jobs.
§In the past four years, more than $1.6 billion has been invested through the Northern Highways Program.
LEARN MORE
Read the Ontario government’s five-year investment plan for highway construction in Northern Ontario.
Get up-to-date road condition information on major highways in the area. You can also call the ministry’s road information line at 416-235-4686, or toll-free at 1-800-268-4686.