High nickel prices are contributing to the expansion of the mines north of Hanmer and Capreol which increases the volume of traffic on MR 80, all of which converge on the Lasalle Blvd.- Notre Dame Street intersections.

The City of Greater Sudbury transportation study, commissioned in 1999 at a time when the population was declining, determined that RR 80, now MR 80 was operating at capacity during peak traffic hours.

In the past two years the City of Greater Sudbury has approved zoning which would allow for further residential development and also the construction of a major discount mall. Traffic is expected to increase even further.

Once completed the Extension will create a much-needed second primary road, relieving congestion on the two existing connectors, Municipal Road 80 (formerly Highway 69 North) and Radar Road/Falconbridge Highway.

It is more economical and efficient to extend Barrydowne Road together with the construction of Maley Drive Extension.

As evaluated in the Transportation background study adopted by the City under paragraph 8.1 Road Network Improvement Alternatives: Both alternatives 1 and 2 each extend Barrydowne road from Maley drive to Bodson drive with a 4 lane road, score the best results on page 75 in table 8.2.1 as most favorable for safety, total network travel time, level of transportation service and impact upon the existing character of neighbourhoods. Those are the determining factors to consider.

Read what the local media says:

Northern Life - Infrastructure needs upgrading: Rivest

Sudbury Star - Massive Valley development approved