TORONTO — The Ontario government is investing nearly $62 million to improve road access in Northern Ontario, advancing a project that provincial leaders describe as key to unlocking the economic potential of the Ring of Fire.
The $61.8-million commitment will fund Geraldton’s Main Street Rehabilitation Project in the Municipality of Greenstone. The roadway upgrade is positioned as the first major segment of a broader network designed to connect Northern communities with the Ring of Fire — a mineral-rich area spanning 5,000 square kilometres that has drawn global attention for its deposits of nickel, copper, platinum and chromite.
Officials say the project represents more than just local infrastructure improvements. It is part of Ontario’s larger strategy to build a secure critical minerals supply chain, support First Nations partnerships, and bolster the province’s long-term economic resilience.
A gateway to growth
“This is more than a roadworks project — it’s a signal that Geraldton is a gateway to one of Ontario’s greatest assets in the face of economic threats from the United States, and that our government is serious about supporting the communities that anchor the North,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships.
Rickford emphasized the importance of Indigenous and municipal collaboration in the project’s development. “With First Nations and communities as integral leaders in these projects, our government is ensuring partnerships remain a central piece of our commitment to unlocking the Ring of Fire and building infrastructure that delivers prosperity for Northern and First Nations communities, for generations to come,” he added.
The Main Street Rehabilitation Project will connect Highway 11 at the south end of Geraldton to Highway 584 at the north, linking into the Trans-Canada Highway system. Once completed, it will serve as the first road segment leading directly to the Ring of Fire.
Supporting Northern communities
Provincial officials argue the project is about more than mining access. Improved transportation is expected to expand access to essential services such as education, health care and housing while also laying the groundwork for future residential and commercial growth in the Greenstone area.
“Our government’s investment in Geraldton’s Main Street Rehabilitation Project will enhance transportation links, improve community connectivity, and drive economic growth across Northern Ontario,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “By working closely with First Nations partners, we are building critical infrastructure to improve access to essential resources and unlock the full economic potential of the Ring of Fire.”
The initiative builds on the province’s Critical Minerals Strategy, which aims to establish an end-to-end supply chain with minerals mined and refined in Ontario. The project also aligns with the Shared Prosperity Agreement with Aroland First Nation, underscoring the government’s commitment to long-term partnerships with Indigenous communities.
Broader provincial strategy
Ontario is positioning the Geraldton project as part of a broader push to strengthen its economy through critical mineral development. The government has framed the Ring of Fire as a generational opportunity to create jobs, attract investment and support clean energy transition goals.
“Our government’s investment in Geraldton’s Main Street Rehabilitation Project underscores a strategic commitment to revitalizing local infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity in the North,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “This is part of a broader collaborative effort to unlock the immense potential of the Ring of Fire region, support inclusive, sustainable development and strengthen Northern Ontario communities.”
Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce pointed to the project’s national significance. “Ontario has a plan to build a stronger and more self reliant Canada. This investment is unlocking the gateway to one of the most significant mineral development opportunities in the world. In partnership with First Nations, we are seizing this generational opportunity to create jobs, improve quality of life, and power Ontario’s clean energy future.”
Local impact
For the Municipality of Greenstone, the announcement marks the culmination of years of preparation and advocacy. Local leaders have long sought funding to modernize Geraldton’s Main Street, describing it as a critical corridor for both community development and regional economic expansion.
“Today’s funding announcement is a tremendous milestone for the Municipality of Greenstone. The revitalization of Main Street in the Geraldton Ward has been years in the making, with strong support from Council, the hard work of our staff, and continued assistance from the Province,” said Mayor James (Jamie) McPherson. “Early planning and preliminary work made possible through NORDS funding helped lay the foundation for this project to move forward. We thank the Government of Ontario for this investment in our community. This transformative project will revitalize our downtown, improve safety, and drive development along the Corridor to Prosperity in our region.”
Next steps
The province is consulting with Indigenous communities potentially impacted by the project and has pledged to continue working in partnership with First Nations as planning progresses.
Officials view the investment as both a practical infrastructure upgrade and a symbolic step toward delivering on Ontario’s ambitions in the Ring of Fire. By establishing reliable all-season access to the mineral-rich region, the government hopes to accelerate resource development while ensuring Northern communities share in the long-term economic benefits.
