It’s been a dream for six years and now one local politician is urging the province to make it a reality.
Kenora MP Greg Rickford says they are still waiting for a firm commitment from the Liberal government to finally begin construction on the twinning of Highway 17 between Kenora and the Manitoba boundary.
The feds committed to the project back in May, 2009 and he’s been assured the four laning of the highway is still top of mind.
Rickford says he’s in daily talks with Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle as the Feds are waiting on the province to wrap up their talks with impacted communities.
Shoal Lake #40 is one community holding out on the project as it continues its battle for an all-weather road.
Rickford admits the entire process has been frustrating and there’s an expectation for provincial resources to move the project forward.
He says the stretch of road is one of the most dangerous in Canada and needs to be twinned.
