Municipal groups are requesting federal funds to upgrade the Trans-Canada Highway in Northern Ontario
Last week, municipal advocacy groups from Northern Ontario visited Ottawa to advocate for four-laning the Trans-Canada Highway through their region.
With support from the province, they managed to secure meetings with both the federal transport minister and even the prime minister.
Federal Transport Minister Steve Mac Kinnon met with leaders from the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA), the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM), and the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) on June 2 to discuss funding for modernizing Highways 11 and 17.
The discussion included highway twinning, safety enhancements, climate resilience, and transportation dependability. The mayors believe these critical northern highways play a vital role in moving goods, services, and people across Canada.
The day before, Marathon Mayor Rick Dumas, who is also president of NOMA, had a chance to speak with Prime Minister Mark Carney at an event.
Dumas handed Carney a Hill Days delegation book from last December that detailed key regional priorities including bail reform, labor immigration and workforce development, natural resource development, and fostering cooperation among all three levels of government.
“(Tuesday’s) meeting was another important step forward in ensuring Northern Ontario’s transportation infrastructure remains part of the national conversation,” said Dumas in a statement.
“There was strong recognition around the table that Highways 11 and 17 are not simply Northern highways – they are nationally significant trade, supply chain, and community lifelines that connect Canada from coast to coast.”
The situation has shifted positively for the mayors recently as they now have backing for highway twinning from provincial officials. Queen’s Park is seeking federal support as well.
“Northern municipalities continue to advocate for meaningful investments that improve safety, strengthen economic competitiveness, and ensure our communities remain connected year-round,” said FONOM president Dave Plourde, mayor of Kapuskasing.
“Reliable transportation infrastructure is essential for economic success, safety, and long-term sustainability of rural and Northern communities across Ontario,” said ROMA Chair Christa Lowry.
“(Tuesday’s) meeting demonstrated how important it is for all levels of government and municipal partners to work together towards practical improvements on these nationally significant corridors.”
The groups believe these discussions are crucial in maintaining momentum toward building a modern highway system that better connects communities while safeguarding travelers and promoting long-term economic growth.
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