Motorists traveling between Timmins and Iroquois Falls now face longer journey times due to a reduced speed limit on the Timmins section of the connecting road. The City of Timmins has lowered the limit from 80 km/h to 50 km/h along a 9.1-kilometer stretch from Highway 101 to the city boundary. This change remains in effect until further notice.

Reason for the Speed Reduction

Officials cite deteriorating asphalt conditions as the primary cause. A contractor currently handles pothole patching and repairs on this section to address immediate safety concerns.

Support from Iroquois Falls Mayor

Tory Delaurier, mayor of Iroquois Falls, endorses the decision. He notes that his municipality maintains its portion of the highway in better condition. “I fully support their move to bring it to 50 kilometres until they fill the potholes and that should be done I’m assuming this week,” Delaurier stated.

Delaurier has consulted with the Timmins mayor and Minister Pirie, and all parties agree this represents the best short-term approach.

Provincial Funding and Future Plans

In January, the province allocated $20 million for upgrading the full 22-kilometer route, which links Highway 101 to Highway 11 and serves vital residential, forestry, and mining traffic. However, the funds await approval from the Treasury Board.

“It’s going into the hands of the Treasury Board and once it’s done that phase, we should know when we can start the next phase and starting construction and engineering on that road,” Delaurier explained. He could not confirm if construction begins this year.