Released on September 14, 2012
Construction continues to move forward on Highway 27 to rebuild a rutted, gravel surface to a structural pavement capable of carrying primary weight, the highest legal weight allowed on provincial highways.
"Highway 27 in its current state was not meeting the needs of our citizens," Highways and Infrastructure Minister Don McMorris said. "When construction is complete, Highway 27 will be ready to carry heavy loads, serving local farm equipment manufacturers, motorists and businesses who depend on Highway 27."
Construction on Highway 27 this season began in April. Contractors are currently working on grading a 23 kilometre (km) stretch from the junction of Highway 2 to Vonda. Paving on this section will begin next year. When that section is complete, work will begin on the last section from Vonda to the junction of Highway 41. This will complete the entire Highway 27 corridor, an investment of $28 million, and the successful upgrading of approximately 34 kms.
When completed, this substantial upgrade will allow shippers to haul primary weights, which should increase the haul capacity of the average truck by 15 to 50 per cent, creating substantial savings and efficiencies.
In the 2012-2013 construction season, the Government of Saskatchewan has budgeted $70.5 million for 150 km of rural highway upgrades.
Motorists are reminded to slow to 60 km/hr in the Orange Zone when passing construction workers and equipment. The base fine for speeding in the Orange Zone is $140 plus $2 per kilometre over the 60 km/hr limit, and $4 per kilometre if speeds exceed 90 km/hr.
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For more information, contact:
Kirsten Leatherdale
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8484
Email: kirsten.leatherdale@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-9692