COCHRANE – Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation, announced that the Government of Ontario is connecting Northeastern Ontario with a long-awaited highway bypass project in the Town of Cochrane. This project will improve safety and reduce travel times for families and truck drivers while creating jobs in local communities as the province reopens the economy.
The project will connect Highway 652 to Highway 11, providing an alternate route for travelers and trucks moving goods and reducing traffic on municipal roads. It is anticipated that the bypass could divert approximately 960 vehicles and 195 trucks per day away from municipal roads.
“This is a critical project as it will make it easier and safer for both travelers and truck drivers by reducing traffic on local municipal roads,” said Minister Mulroney. “We understand the unique transportation challenges of the North and are committed to ensuring everyone has access to a safe transportation network that supports northern businesses, communities, and families. This also includes optimizing bus services and options for passenger rail service.”
The province is proceeding with the planning, preliminary design, and environmental assessment for the extension of Highway 652 to Highway 11 at Cochrane. This is part of the government’s plan to build safer and better highways while improving and modernizing transportation for families and businesses in Northern Ontario.
“Our government recognizes the need to improve transportation options for the people and businesses of Northern Ontario,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. “Today, we are taking the next step in this important project that will better connect Northeastern Ontario and help grow the local economy.”