Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Government of Ontario is providing $8 million through the 2025-26 Winter Roads Program to help 32 remote First Nation communities and the Town of Moosonee build and maintain approximately 3,200 kilometres of temporary winter roads.
The winter roads network, the longest in Canada, provides vital seasonal connections for more than 24,000 people, allowing northern communities to bring in essential goods and services, access health care, and support economic activity, including mining.
Key projects funded this year include:
- Weenusk – $452,099 for a road connecting the community to Fort Severn.
- Wawakapewin – $280,356 to link the community to Highway 599.
- Sandy Lake – $248,654 to connect with the Deer Lake and Keewaywin winter road systems.
- Amimakee Wa Zhing #37 (Northwest Angle #37) – $117,336 for a road from Windigo Island to Kenora.
“The winter roads network is an economic lifeline for many northern communities,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Through this funding, we are helping Far North communities maximize their economic potential and improving quality of life for northerners.”
The program also includes $5 million for the Bridges and Culverts Stream, supporting pre-engineered bridge installations, culvert purchases, and repairs of existing water-crossing structures along the winter roads network.
“These temporary winter roads are vital connections that support economic development and increase access to essential resources for thousands of northerners,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation.
At 3,200 kilometres, Ontario’s winter roads typically operate for six to 11 weeks each winter, from late January until the end of March, providing essential access to remote northern communities and supporting both residents and northern industries.