The first set of passing lanes on Highway 39 between Estevan and Weyburn are opening.
The passing lanes are part of a $100 million federal-provincial highway safety improvement to this busy international trade corridor.
“Moving people and goods safely on provincial highways is critical on this busy corridor,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Greg Ottenbreit said. “Passing lanes provide additional opportunities for drivers to pass safely, and reduce highway collisions at a fraction of the cost of twinning.”
“Having driven this very busy corridor for years, these passing lanes will be very welcome,” Government Relations Minister and Estevan MLA Lori Carr said. “They will bring much needed added safety for those that travel this route.”
“We are pleased to invest in these important upgrades to Highways 6 and 39,” said Federal Minister of Transport Marc Garneau. “This project will improve the safety and security of commuters, alleviate bottlenecks, and ensure that Saskatchewan’s transportation networks remain competitive and efficient.”
The Government of Canada is investing $53.3 million toward the project under the National Trade Corridors Fund. The project consists of improvements on Highway 6, and the resurfacing and addition of 10 passing lanes on Highway 39.
It will also see shoulder widening, installation of Intelligent Transportation Systems and variable message signs, and culvert replacements. Work is scheduled to be complete in the summer of 2021.
The first set of passing lanes will open as soon as line painting and sign installation is complete. Drivers are asked to obey signs and watch for changing traffic patterns as new infrastructure opens on Highway 39.
Construction also continues on a $31.2 million project which includes four sets of passing lanes on Highway 39 between McTaggart to Milestone and about 25 km of paving. This portion is scheduled to be complete later this fall. Drivers are asked to consider alternate routes while work is ongoing.
A $5.4 million passing lane project was completed along the same corridor on Highway 6 south of Regina in 2018.
