Released on June 25, 2009
About 700,000 metric tonnes of asphalt concrete pavement - or enough to fill a rail line of grain hopper cars stretching from about Saskatoon to Rosetown - was used in provincial highway projects last year with even greater quantities expected to be used this construction season.
"It is stunning to imagine just how much of this material is required to pave Saskatchewan's roads," Highways and Infrastructure Minister Jim Reiter said. "I also want to once again remind motorists to plan the safest and most efficient routes before travelling and to keep Orange Zone safety in mind. Remember, drivers who exceed 60 km/h when passing a highway worker face a base fine of $140."
Highway work that has recently started includes Highway 3 near Prince Albert, Highway 13 near Forget, Highway 16 near Maidstone, Highway 33 near Francis and Highway 47 near Stoughton.
Construction work is subject to weather conditions and contractor progress. Motorists can also get important travel information on the Summer Road Conditions and Road Conditions Map sections of the Highway Hotline online at www.highways.gov.sk.ca/road-conditions/.
Highway Hotline information via telephone is as follows: Regina and area at 306-787-7623; Saskatoon and area at 306-933-8333; on the SaskTel Cellular Network at *ROAD; and now throughout Canada at 1-888-335-7623.
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For more information, contact:
Dan Palmer
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4805