Chain-Up Areas

New chain-up areas will enhance safety and operational efficiency during winter conditions along Highway 37 and 37A.

These new areas will be located near Meziadin Junction, the existing Windy Hill chain-up area and Bell 1 rest area and will generally include paved pullouts, garbage cans and toilets.

Location

• Meziadin Junction Northbound – 2.5 km south of Meziadin Junction
• Meziadin Junction Southbound – 3.6 km south of Meziadin Junction
• Windy Hill – 13 km west of Meziadin Junction
• Bell 1 – 32 km north of Meziadin Junction

Status

• Chain-up areas at Bell 1, Meziadin Junction and Windy Hill are anticipated to be substantially complete in 2026 with minor works scheduled for 2027

Project benefits

• Provide safe chain-up areas to travellers near sections with steep grades
• Provide rest area services for travellers and large commercial vehicles

Schedule

• Bell 1 – Operational in fall 2026
• Meziadin Junction – Operational in fall 2026
• Windy Hill – Operational in fall 2026

Project cost

The total program cost is estimated at $195 million. This includes a $120 million investment from the Province and up to $75 million from Natural Resources Canada under the First and Last Mile Fund (formerly the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund).