The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) is welcoming provincial enhancements to safety and enforcement along the Highway 11/17 corridor.
However, the northern group is also calling for continued progress.
Officials say the highways are an essential transportation link for Northern communities, industries, and Canada’s national supply chains.
The province’s plan includes increased enforcement, expanded inspection capacity, improved signage, and continued design work for future highway improvements.
“FONOM is pleased to see continued investments aimed at improving safety and reliability on Highways 11 and 17,” says Dave Plourde, President. “These are important and necessary steps for northern communities that rely on this corridor every day.”
While encouraged by the provincial announcement, FONOM says recent incidents on Northern highways underscore the importance of maintaining momentum.
“We continue to see serious collisions and highway closures across the North,” adds Plourde. “While the measures announced will help, they also reinforce that more work remains to be done to ensure these highways meet the expectations of the people who use them.”
FONOM says it continues to advocate for:
– Enhanced safety measures and enforcement
– Expanded passing opportunities, including 2+1 and four-laning where appropriate
– Improved rest areas and winter reliability
– A coordinated provincial and federal commitment to long-term corridor improvements
“We appreciate the province’s engagement and look forward to continuing this work together,” says Plourde. “Northern municipalities are ready to be part of the solution.”
