Recently an extension to the Community Consultation Agreement was signed with Batchewana First Nation (BFN) and the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) for the purpose of deciding if a re-alignment of Highway 17 should extend through the Rankin location.

The firms of Wm. R. Walker Engineering Inc. and Planning Advisory Services have been hired to conduct a Community Design Plan for Rankin location, relating to the land-use and community impacts of the proposed extension of Highway 17. James Roach, a recent graduate of Ryerson University with a B.A. in Urban Planning will be employed as a Community Planner in partnership with Wm. R. Walker Engineering and the Highway 17 (new) Team. James is a member of the Batchewana First Nation community. His familiarity with existing land use trends and the community structure will be a valuable asset in going forward with this project.

The purpose of this project is to identify and address the current and future needs of the community that will guide future development. The plan will look at the impact of the proposed Highway 17 alignment on existing and future land use patterns. As well, establish and identify community needs such as; population, residential, commercial, industrial, transportation, social, cultural, environmental and recreational.

To ensure that the resulting community plan meets the needs of its residents the consultants invite community members to participate in its preparation. There will be two Open Houses announced in the near future. The first is to introduce community members to the community planning process, and what it means in moving ahead. The second is to share our findings and review alternatives based on those findings.

The study will make recommendations with respect to the future land use patterns for the community and establish community needs relating to the possible realignment of Highway 17. All recommendations will be based on land use planning practices and meaningful consultation with administrative staff and community members of the Batchewana First Nation.

If you require further information with regard to the above you may contact James Roach at (705) 759-7285 or via email jroach@batchewna.ca