Local leaders in northern Ontario are calling on both the federal and provincial governments to start planning to expand Highways 11 and 17 to four lanes.
The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association, along with the Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities, has sent a letter to Premier Doug Ford requesting that formal talks begin.
This request comes after Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the need for four-laning during a recent trip to Thunder Bay.
The municipal groups are asking for a strategy that sets out timelines for construction and funding arrangements.
They also mention that Ford, during his visit to Thunder Bay in June, pledged to discuss this matter with the Prime Minister.
“With both governments now recognizing the importance of these highways, there is a clear
opportunity to move from discussion to action,” reads the letter.
“FONOM and NOMA respectfully ask Ontario to begin formal discussions with the federal government to establish a jointly funded, phased plan to four-lane Highways 11 and 17.”
The municipal advocacy groups emphasize how vital both highways are, as they serve as the main east-west transportation routes across northern Ontario and are essential for Canada’s
national transportation and supply chain network.
“Northern communities have waited too long for a comprehensive solution to the safety, reliability and capacity challenges along these routes. While individual improvements remain important, four-laning Highways 11 and 17 should be the long-term objective.”
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