Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is funding the rehabilitation of County Road 49 between Picton and the Bay of Quinte Skyway Bridge, repairing and upgrading 18.4 kilometres of roadway that the Canadian Automobile Association has identified as one of the worst in the province.
The project will include repaving, new culverts, and guiderail improvements to support the safe movement of people and goods, while keeping thousands of construction workers employed in Southeastern Ontario.
“RCCAO commends the Ontario government for rehabilitating County Road 49 and advancing the state of good repair of this critical regional transportation infrastructure,” said Nadia Todorova, executive director, Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario. “As the technical partner for CAA’s annual Worst Roads Campaign, RCCAO has a strong understanding of the conditions facing roads like County Road 49 and the impacts they have on residents and businesses.
“The challenges associated with deteriorating infrastructure are real and well understood, and the rehabilitation of County Road 49 is both welcome and necessary.”
County Road 49 was ranked the third-worst road in Ontario last year in a CAA survey. Repairs are expected to benefit tourism and the local economy by connecting residents and visitors to wineries, restaurants, theatres, and other attractions, as well as essential services such as health care and housing.
“Rehabilitating County Road 49 is an important investment in critical core infrastructure in Prince Edward County. Our industry appreciates the province’s responsiveness in addressing an issue that residents and road users have consistently raised as a priority,” said Patrick McManus, executive director, Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association. “Project investments like this help improve road safety, support local jobs, and ensure the province’s transportation network continues to move people and goods efficiently.
“It’s a great investment that will have a positive long-term impact for the region.”
The municipality is contributing $7.8 million from its capital budget to the project. Ontario is investing $30 billion in highways, roads, and bridges across the province, including recent upgrades to the Bay of Quinte Skyway Bridge and a roundabout at Highway 62 and County Road 1.
Mayor Steve Ferguson said the project is “a long overdue once-in-a-generation infrastructure project” that is vital to the county’s economic growth and well-being.
