Transportation Support

Northern Highways

This program funds the reconstruction and selective expansion of the highway system in Northern Ontario, including:

• Adding passing lanes
• Reconstructing and resurfacing
• Widening sections of major northern highways with heavier traffic

We consult with the Ministry of Transportation to plan construction and repair projects. In 2010-11, we have committed a record $773 million for the Northern Ontario Highways Program.

Winter Roads

Winter roads in the province's Far North connect 31 communities to a permanent highway or railway system. From freeze up until spring thaw (usually late March), these roads make it easier and less costly for people to travel and bring in supplies. Communities manage the construction and usually pay part of the costs.

In 2010-2011, we have committed $4.5 million to help isolated northern communities build winter roads over frozen ground and waterways.

Local Roads Boards Program

MNDM works with the Ministry of Transportation to build and maintain more than 4,300 kilometres of local roads for more than 200 Local Roads and Statute Labour boards.

MNDM also has Special Maintenance Agreements (50/50) with cottagers and First Nations.

The total budget for 2010-11 is $12.55 million.

Resource Access Roads Program

In 2009-2010 the Ontario government has committed $2.85 million to repair or build multi-use resource access roads on Crown land. These roads are for:

• Forestry and mineral resource companies that have permits to conduct business on Crown land
• Residents and tourists who want to travel to wilderness areas
• Provincial government employees who are managing the province's natural resources