Ontario Starting Work on 2+1 Highway

Province improving road safety and traffic flow in northern Ontario

July 14, 2023

NORTH BAY – To improve road safety and keep people and goods moving across the province, the Ontario government has awarded a contract to begin the environmental assessment and design work for a 2+1 highway on Highway 11 north of North Bay.

“Taking the next step to build the first 2+1 roadway in North America is just another way our government is investing in highways across the province,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “We’re making great progress on our plan to build Ontario as we continue to work closely with communities and safety advocates to build a safer transportation network.”

AECOM Canada Ltd. will undertake the environmental assessment and design work for the three-lane highway which will incorporate a passing lane that changes direction approximately every two to five kilometres. The 2+1 highway model is used in other jurisdictions around the world and is more cost efficient than twinning a highway.

“The 2+1 highway project demonstrates our government’s continued efforts to strengthen our transportation network and expand opportunities for economic growth and development in northern Ontario,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and MPP for Nipissing. “In addition to keeping our promise to build Ontario, this project will play an important role in addressing the unique transportation needs of the north, enhancing traffic flow and improving safety for individuals and businesses alike on our roads.”

Quick Facts

The province has identified two potential locations for the 2+1 highway project. While both sites will be assessed, the design and environmental assessment for Highway 11 from Sand Dam Road to Ellesmere Road (14 kilometres) will be prioritized.
From April 2023 to March 2024, the Ontario government is committing nearly $624 million to repair and expand provincial highways and bridges in northern Ontario.
Ontario’s transportation plan for northern Ontario includes more than 60 actions that will get more people moving, improve travel options for people in remote communities and support economic growth in the north.

Quotes

“The 2+1 project is one that our organization has strongly advocated for and we’re excited to see it another step closer to getting built. Northern road safety will always be our main priority and we are pleased that the Ontario government is investing in northern communities with critical infrastructure projects that will make a difference for generations to come.”

– Mark Wilson
Councillor, City of Temiskaming Shores

“This 2+1 highway project will enhance highway safety in communities in northern Ontario. The highway’s innovative design will make our roads and highways safer for everyone and I am so pleased that Minister Mulroney and the Ontario government are moving forward with design and environmental assessment work.”

– Danny Whalen
Councillor, City of Temiskaming Shores and President of The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities

“I want to thank the province for taking the next step to support people and businesses in northern Ontario by awarding a contract for design and environmental assessment work for a 2+1 highway on Highway 11. This is a great step forward for the people of North Bay.”

– Peter Chirico
Mayor of North Bay