The MTO, and company Egis, and the Municipality of Opasatika plan the potential build of a rest area for commercial motor vehicles within 180m of the Opasatika River. 

The proposal has 9 option outlines that have been labelled as Alternatives 1-9, settling on Alternative 7 as the preferred location. This location is beside our river and consists of flooding due to high river water levels in the spring. This location would highly impact our little community. The river will get contaminated by spills, and trash. The quaint and clean boat launch area we all love will be taken over by trucks, with less space for boaters. 

The Opasatika river current runs into Allan Lake, and into Zadie lake, and through Ontario Power Generations Zadie damn, and can be followed all the way to Moosenee. 

With over 300 highway closures a year on highway 11, this proposed parking area will be full often, and unless there is constant staff on site there is destined to be  lots of litter that doesn't get placed in the bins, flooding into the river, flying in the wind and into the water, following current all the way into the lakes. Not mention the spills and contaminent that will also make their way into our water threatening the wellbeing of our fish, and other wildlife. 

While having over 300 highway closures we are in need of more rest areas for all drivers, to keep everyone safe on the roads.

If you think Egis and the municipality of Opasatika should look more into the other 7 alternatives away from the river, please help us make a change by signing this petition. 

Update : March 24th 2026.

After voicing concern at the town council meeting, we were not taken seriously, and concerns dismissed. 
This isn't over. MTO, Egis, and Opasatika need to think about the environment and the land we are on, and residents of the village. Things like this take time, and all the support helps. We wont let Egis’ April 4th deadline scare us from pushing for changes or pressuring them to consider other alternatives.