Released on June 4, 2013
Residents, tourists and business owners in the Emma Lake area north of Prince Albert can expect smooth, safe new roads to drive on by the end of the summer.
Work began today on 6.3 km of construction on the Emma Lake Access Road from its junction with Highway 263 to the northwest, as well as on about 700 metres on the Murray Point Campground Access Road from its junction with the Emma Lake Access Road to the north.
“The Emma Lake Recreation Site draws visitors from across Saskatchewan and beyond, and unfortunately the access roads have not been adequate for some time,” Saskatchewan Rivers MLA Nadine Wilson said on behalf of Highways and Infrastructure Minister Don McMorris. “We’re completely rebuilding these roads to a standard that will properly serve the needs of heavy tourist traffic and help to stimulate future growth and development in the area.”
Equipment was brought on site last week and grading began today. Paving will start as early as the week of June 10. Work at the Emma Lake Access Road has been on hold since 2010. Contractor scheduling conflicts and wet weather conditions caused extensive delays on the project. Completion of the project is currently targeted for late summer.
Traffic will be reduced to one lane during construction, and motorists passing through the area are advised to watch for soft portions and fresh gravel and be aware of the potential for blowing dust. Drivers must obey flag people and should consider setting aside extra time for travel.
All motorists are reminded they must slow to 60 km/hr in highway work zones. New simplified signage will direct drivers exactly when to slow to 60 km/hr. Drivers now face three times the normal fines for speeding and heavier enforcement in work zones.
The government has invested a record $3.7 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2007.
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For more information, contact:
Joel Cherry
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4805