A long-awaited resurfacing project is now underway on Highway 26 between the junctions of Meadows Road and Highway 248, covering an 18-kilometre stretch west of St. François Xavier.
Reeve Delmer Nott of the Rural Municipality of St. François Xavier says the work is a badly needed improvement on a route that's been deteriorating for years.
“We have major dips, dives, uneven patches between the two previous lanes and a lot of very sharp holes and edges that have been broken out over the years.”
He says the stretch currently being redone was last resurfaced about 25 years ago. Since then, it has received only minor patching with little long-term benefit.
“They're continuing from where they left off. That part was redone approximately 25 years ago.”
Residents relieved, but full reconstruction still needed
Nott says residents are glad to see progress and grateful for the upgrades, though he acknowledges it's not a permanent fix.
“They see some progress and yes, they're thrilled. I mean is it the final solving the problem? Not at the moment, but is it appreciated? Absolutely.”
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He adds that the improvements will significantly enhance road safety.
“It’s going to take the major part of the lots and the unevenness out of it… the actions of the government right at this moment have definitely gone fair ways to improve the safety for residents travelling on the highway.”
Intersection upgrade dependent on CentrePort access plans
The municipality is also keeping an eye on plans for the Highway 1 and Highway 26 intersection. Progress there hinges on where the CentrePort access road will eventually connect with the Trans-Canada Highway.
“We're waiting for some news from the government… part of our area is in what we call a frozen zone. We're not allowed to look at any development in that area.”
Nott says even a rough outline from the province would allow the municipality to plan commercial or industrial development and improve safety.
“If that CentrePort is not going through there, or is, then we can look at an alternative plan… they're willing to look at an alternative plan to improve the safety there.”
CAA rankings may help bolster local voices
Highway 26 has ranked high in CAA’s “worst roads” list in recent years, landing second place two years ago and eighth last year.
Nott says public reports like these may help amplify local concerns at the provincial level.
“It definitely provides an avenue for us… I think it kind of gives credibility to the concerns that we’ve been expressing to the government all along.”
Although the timeline for completing the remainder of the highway remains uncertain, Nott says he’s grateful for the work that is already happening.
“What we’re getting is a vast improvement for transportation through some of our municipality… there’s still an area that hasn’t been done that needs to be done.”
Nott says he’s happy to provide photos of the roadwork and appreciates the ongoing dialogue with both media and government.
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