County expected to invest $430 million on roads over the next ten years

The County of Essex is hosting a public information session in McGregor today (June 25) to discuss its road network. Image courtesy of Essex County.

An Essex County Transportation Master Plan is in the works and county officials want your input.

On Wednesday (June 25) a public information session is being held at the McGregor Community Centre to unveil the plan which will shape how residents travel over 1,503 lane kilometers.

“We care what you think and we want your input. What forms of transportation do you use to get around Essex County?” asked Warden Hilda MacDonald as part of her opening remarks at last week’s council meeting.

She said that there are several different modes of transportation including vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and public transportation.

MacDonald urged local residents to contact the county’s "report a problem" portal if they see something on the roads that needs to be addressed.

“You are the eyes and ears on Essex County roads so let us know if you hear or see any issues.”

According to the county’s recent Asset Management Plan, Essex will require $430 million over the next 10 years for roads. Currently it has $110.7 million in reserves.

The Master Plan is intended to be a blueprint of sorts for the county’s roads for the next 30 years. Priorities in the plan include efficient traffic flow, long-term infrastructure planning and accommodating growth.

The plan evaluates current traffic conditions and forecasts the region’s future transportation requirements.

MacDonald noted that there are several road projects currently taking place throughout the county.

“We are well into construction season where we are rehabilitating, maintaining and enhancing our vast road network.”

She said this year the county is investing $67 million into roadway expansion and $20 million to rehabilitate 33 km of roads.

“Thank You to everyone who has been patient and attentive around construction sites and maintenance crews and thank you for slowing down,” said MacDonald.

There are several county roads that run through Amherstburg including County Road 5, north and south, Roads 10, 11, 16, 18, 20, 41, and 50. County Road 8 is the longest and runs through all seven municipalities.

Anyone wishing to comment on the Essex County Transportation Master Plan can contact manager of transportation, planning and development Jerry Behl at 519-776-6441 Ext. 1316 or jbehl@countyofessex.ca.

County expected to invest $430 million on roads over the next ten years

By Fred Groves