Wellington North – It could be a bumpy ride this summer – and possibly well into next year – for drivers travelling between Arthur and Mount Forest.
On April 18, the Ministry of Transportation announced road work on Highway 6 in between the two communities.
Improvements are intended to reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety and keep the infrastructure in top form.
The work includes:
– widening lanes and shoulders along Highway 6;
– adding new curbs and sidewalks through Kenilworth;
– replacing the Farley’s Creek bridge and Four Mile Creek bridge, and repairing the Smokey Creek bridge and Mitchell’s Creek bridge;
– adding new northbound and southbound passing lanes near Sideroad 8 and south of Mount Forest respectively; and
– planting more than 270 coniferous tree hedges to reduce the effects of blowing snow on the highway.
Cox Construction Limited, of Guelph, was awarded the $19.6-million construction contract and the work is expected to be completed by fall of 2009.
During construction, drivers on Highway 6 will occasionally be required to share a single lane as directed by temporary traffic lights or a flagman during the day.
More than 5,400 vehicles use the highway every day. Once improved, officials hope the highway will not need improvements for another 15 to 20 years.
