Recent clearing work along an 11-kilometre stretch of Highway 11 in Ontario marks the beginning of North America's first 2+1 highway pilot project. This innovative roadway design, which features a three-lane configuration with a median barrier, aims to enhance safety and efficiency for drivers. The Ontario Ministry of Transportation is overseeing the project, which will also address existing road issues such as frost heaves and pavement distress. Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli highlighted that the two pilot locations were selected based on public input and site criteria. The provincial government is allocating $600 million for improvements to northern highways, with over 50 construction contracts awarded since 2024. The 2+1 model, inspired by successful examples in Europe, has demonstrated significant safety improvements, reducing fatality rates by 55 to 80 percent. The project is expected to provide more passing opportunities without the need for full highway twinning, making it a cost-effective solution for northern Ontario's challenging terrain.