Archeological findings delay repairs to Highway 6
CALEDONIA — If you’ve driven down Highway 6 between Caledonia and Hagersville, you’ve likely asked yourself why nothing is being done fix the many potholes on the road. There is finally an answer. A media release from the Ministry of Transportation, passed along by MPP Toby Barrett’s office, archeological findings are responsible for the delay in reconstruction along Highway 6. The release states that residents should expect to see work being done on the highway in the spring.
“The ministry is now able to tender a contract to fully reconstruct Highway 6 in this area,” the statement reads.
No details were given as to what was found or why it held up work on the highway for so long, but it does suggest that there has been resolution. Barrett said this is the first time he has been informed of the reason for the delay.
Coun. Tony Dalimonte hasn’t hidden his frustrations with the condition of the road.
“Where was this explanation a year ago? That’s my frustration here,” Dalimonte said. “We’re not talking a quiet road here, I’m going to say it’s the busiest road in Haldimand County.”
Dalimonte said that while the archeological findings are legitimate, the lack of communication is one of his main concerns. As well, he believes that the Ministry of Transportation has been trying to delay work on the road.
“The municipality understands that any time you’re doing widening on a provincial highway, which is going to happen at both Third and Fourth lines … part of the process is that (an archeological dig) has to be completed,” Dalimonte said. “The underlying fact still remains — in my view, from everything I understand — is that they’ve tried to hold this road over. Now that has caught up with them, you see how badly the road is breaking apart.”
Dalimonte said that while construction has only been made official for spring of 2018, he expects that crews will begin working on the road sooner than later.
The councillor continued to bring up his concerns at a recent council meeting. He said that numerous residents have come forward with concerns over who they should deliver claims to in regards to damage to their vehicles.
To submit a claim, go to: www.mto.gov.on.ca /english
/vehicles/submit-aclaim.shtml.