Construction began early this spring for a project that will install a roundabout at the intersection of Highway 39 and 13, and twin 5.8 kilometres of Highway 39. According to David Horth with the Provincial ministry of Highways, both aspects of the project are designed to improve safety and support the province's export-based economy.
Work is now well underway with significant detours established for traffic on both busy highways. Horth says these detours are well marked, but there are a few restrictions to keep in mind.
“The contractor has put together a detour that's well marked at the roundabout and that's to permit traffic to continue flowing while protecting drivers and construction workers. Now, the key thing about the detour is that it's reduced speed and there's also a width restriction. Vehicles that are more than four metres wide are not permitted on the detour and they have to use either Highway 35 or Range Road 2151.”
There have been reports of drivers taking their own detours through private property or residential areas. Horth urges drivers to follow posted instructions when travelling through the area, as they are designed to maintain the safety of drivers, construction workers, and people in the surrounding area.
“We recognize that it's an inconvenience and we'd like to thank drivers in advance for their patience. Most drivers certainly are wonderful about making sure they follow the rules and protect both themselves and the people that are doing the work to make things better for all of us.”
Horth points to the Highway Hotline as a source to find updated information on construction work on provincial highways. The ministry also publishes a weekly highway construction update on Saskatchewan.ca that provides information on work zones across the province.