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The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) has retained WSP Canada Inc. to complete a preliminary design and environmental assessment for the Highway 11/17 widening to four lanes from Kakabeka Falls easterly to the Thunder Bay Expressway.

To address current and future transportation needs in this area, MTO has completed several planning studies, ranging back to the 1970s, that determined a four-lane divided controlled access highway is needed. Widening this section of Highway 11/17 is a part of MTO’s larger plan to construct a four-lane divided highway between Thunder Bay and Shabaqua Corners.

As the initial stages of route planning have been completed, we will focus on reviewing and updating previous studies, including a review of the following:

  • horizontal and vertical alignment
  • intersection improvements
  • potential grade separations and interchange configurations
  • highway structures
  • drainage features
  • roadway illumination

Finally, we will determine a construction phasing approach in order to meet the long-term safety and operation needs.

Consultation will take place throughout the study with external agencies, Indigenous communities, property owners, and the public. One public information centre (PIC) is planned. Notices providing the time and location of the PIC will be posted on this website, published in local newspapers, and sent to individuals and organizations on the project mailing list. Narrated PIC displays will also be provided on the project website.

Upon completion of the preliminary design study and environmental assessment, a transportation environmental study report (TESR) will be prepared to document the preliminary design for the proposed improvements to Highway 11/17 and the proposed environmental mitigation measures.

We will provide regular updates on the project, including information on the PIC, environmental studies, and the preliminary design.

We value your input! If you would like to be added to the project mailing list or submit comments or questions, please click here.

Photo showing the area

Image of Highway 11/17

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