MPP Kevin Holland’s Statement on Highway Safety in the Thunder Bay Region

February 4, 2026

Road safety and transportation infrastructure have been a top priority for me since being elected. Much of this work happens outside of the media spotlight, but it is ongoing and focused on making our highways and local roads safer. I want to be transparent with residents about the work that is underway and the steps I continue to push for when it comes to highway safety in our region.

Highway safety matters to me on a very personal level. I served as Mayor of the Township of Conmee for more than 30 years and spent 21 years as a volunteer firefighter, responding to emergencies and highway collisions alongside the OPP and other first responders. I also live along the highway and travel it daily, so this is not an abstract issue for me. The safety of our residents is always top of mind, and my experiences help guide the conversations I have with the government about where improvements are needed.

Over the past several years, the Ministry of Transportation has made significant investments across Northwestern and Northern Ontario to improve road safety and strengthen transportation infrastructure. In the past year alone, this has included approximately $580 million to repair and expand highways across Northern Ontario.

Key initiatives that are underway or completed with the Ministry of Transportation are:

New Four-lane highway to Shabaqua Corners – I’ve been working closely with the Ministry on the planned four-lane divided highway between Thunder Bay and Shabaqua Corners. This work started when I was Mayor of Conmee and has continued since I was elected. The project is currently in the surveying phase, and once that is complete, construction will begin on the first segment.

Four-lane highway expansion to Nipigon – Work continues on the four-lane highway improvements between Thunder Bay and Nipigon. Fifty-eight kilometres of this route are already open. Expanding this corridor will improve safety, traffic flow, and connectivity across the region.

Transport Inspection Station in Shuniah – In 2024, the Ministry opened a new Transport Inspection Station in Shuniah. This modern facility is fully operational and plays an important role in identifying unsafe commercial vehicles and keeping them off the road. When the station is not open, Ministry of Transportation enforcement officers continue inspections on the road.

Commercial vehicle enforcement – MTO enforcement and inspection activity has been stepped up across the Thunder Bay region. These efforts are ongoing and focused on ensuring compliance and protecting all road users.

Designated Truck Route – The Designated Truck Route, established by the City of Thunder Bay, remains a topic of ongoing discussion. I continue to engage with the City Council on this issue and will keep raising safety and infrastructure considerations on behalf of all residents.

Improving highway safety is an ongoing effort that requires coordination, focus, and action. I will continue working closely with the Ministry, municipal partners, and law enforcement to deliver meaningful improvements and ensure our highways are safer for all drivers.