Released on December 5, 2003
Work to upgrade Highway 42 to a paved standard will begin this summer, one year ahead of schedule."Upgrading this highway from its current Thin Membrane Surface (TMS) and gravel surfaces to a paved standard will enhance the ability of communities and businesses to better access the tremendous economic opportunities in the Lake Diefenbaker area," Highways and Transportation Minister Mark Wartman said.
The provincial government is working with local communities to address concerns about Highway 42 and improve its condition.
Originally scheduled for commencement in the 2005-06 fiscal year, upgrading of Highway 42 will begin with grading and paving of a 13 km section from 2 km south of Brownlee to 1 km south of Eyebrow in 2004. The estimated $2.3 million cost of this project will be shared on a 50-50 basis by the provincial and federal governments through the Prairie Grain Roads Program (PGRP). Upgrading of Highway 42 from Keeler to Brownlee and Eyebrow to the junction of Highway 19 is currently scheduled for completion by 2007.
Preliminary survey work on this project will begin immediately. Motorists are reminded to slow to 60 km/h in the Orange Zone.
"In the last four years, we have upgraded more than 1,000 km of TMS highways to a paved standard, including 145 km this past construction season," Wartman said. "These highways have served the province well for many years in providing a dust-free driving surface for light vehicles, but we need to upgrade our infrastructure to accommodate increased truck and tourism traffic, especially with the province's upcoming centennial."
In addition to the work on Highway 42, Highways and Transportation recently released its $72.8 million Winter Tender Schedule. For more information on Saskatchewan's investments in highways infrastructure, visit the web site at: www.highways.gov.sk.ca.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Brian Cook Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: (306)787-2701 |