The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry announced July 6 that five major highway constructions projects throughout Northern Ontario.
The improvements, which fall under the Ontario government's Northern Highways Program, are designed to improve safety and traffic flow. The government expects the five projects to create nearly 300 direct and indirect jobs.
In the Sudbury area, more than 22 kilometres of Highway 64 north of Noelville will be resurfaced and graded. The $9.4-million project includes culvert replacement and the rehabilitation of the Wolseley River and West Arm bridges. Completion is expected in November 2010.
Another project will improve Highway 66 near Kenogami Lake. Work will include curve widening, guide rail replacements and culvert replacements. The $4.8-million project is expected to be completed by November.
In the Nipissing region, two projects are underway this season. A $12.1-million initiative will improve more than 18 kilometres of Highway 63 east of North Bay. It will include resurfacing, grading, drainage and culverts maintenance. It is scheduled for completion this November.
About 15 kilometres of Highway 17 near Mattawa will be upgraded with the construction of a new eastbound passing lane, bridge rehabilitation and culvert and guide rail replacements. Completion is scheduled for November 2010 on the $8.3-million contract.
Atikokan will also see highway improvements this year on 15 kilometres of Highway 11. It will include pavement rehabilitation, improved grading and drainage and culvert replacement. The Lerome Lake Dam, which safely stores and controls water to prevent damage to the highway, will also be rehabilitated to ensure its long-term viability.
Miller Northwest Limited of Dryden has been awarded the $5.5-million contract. The work is scheduled for completion this September.
