News Release
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Construction to Begin under Winter Roads Program
NEWS December 9, 2014
Ontario is making it easier for remote northern First Nations communities to get vital goods and services this
winter.
Through a $5-million investment from the Ontario government, 31 First Nations and the Town of Moosonee
will have access to a 3,160-kilometre network of temporary roads over frozen ground and waterways.
Each year, winter roads connect remote northern communities to a permanent provincial highway or railway
system. Individuals and businesses use the roads from freeze-up until spring thaw.
Improving access for remote northern communities is part of the government’s economic plan for Ontario.
The four-part plan is building Ontario up by investing in people’s talents and skills, building new public
infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives and
building a secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.
QUOTES
“Our government recognizes the economic and social benefits of a seasonal roads network in Ontario’s Far
North. Through the province’s Winter Roads Program, we are making it more affordable and convenient for
remote northern communities to access essential goods and services.”
— Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines
“Many remote First Nation communities rely on the Winter Roads Program to get the essential supplies they
will need for the upcoming year. Continuing to invest in this program is one way we’re supporting access to
essential goods and services and building strong, resilient northern and First Nation communities.”
— David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
QUICK FACTS
Ontario’s 3,160-kilometre winter roads network is approximately the same driving distance as Timmins
to Cranbrook, B.C.
Since October 2003, the Ontario government has invested more than $49 million through the Winter
Roads Program.
