Highway construction to look out for this long weekend

Saskatchewan’s highways will be busy this long weekend, with many parts under construction.

According to Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Highways, $28 million is being spent to make roadways leading to provincial park smoother.

“The August long weekend is a great time for family and friends to enjoy our province’s many beautiful parks and lakes,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister David Marit said in a news release. “With highway improvement projects going on around a number of our provincial parks, drivers should plan ahead, be patient and follow the posted signage when entering work zones.”

Road work – like grading, paving, spot improvements, rut filling and bridge construction – is happening throughout the province.

The province has released a list of work zones near favourite long weekend destinations:

• Highway 4 near Grasslands National Park
• Highway 4 near Saskatchewan Landing Provincial Park
• Highway 10 near Echo Valley Provincial Park
• Highway 26 near Makwa Lake Provincial Park
• Highway 102 near Lac La Ronge Provincial Park
• Highway 42 near Douglas Provincial Park

Drivers are being asked to slow down in certain areas, even if workers aren’t present, in case there are hazards like sharp pavement drops or loose stones. Fines for speeding through an orange zone triple when workers are present.

“All those travelling this coming weekend are reminded to leave time for construction or other travel delays and to have a safe and enjoyable holiday,” Marit said.

People are advised to check the Highway Hotline while planning a trip, as well as the province’s weekly construction update.