Drivers in Eskasoni, Nova Scotia, are facing traffic delays this month as provincial crews begin major repairs on Highway 216. The work covers an 11-kilometre stretch of road between Shore Road and Castle Bay, which is now limited to a single lane. This construction project is expected to continue until late Spring 2026 (weather permitting).
The Nova Scotia Department of Public Works is repaving the road and addressing shoulder stabilization to reduce erosion into the Bras d’Or Lake. People driving through the area can expect peak-hour delays of up to 20 minutes. Drivers can see the latest road conditions on the 511 Nova Scotia website.
Workers with flaggers will direct traffic from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and automated traffic signals will control the road during overnight hours. This highway is a vital link for school buses and families living in the Eskasoni First Nation. Local leaders say they are monitoring the situation to ensure police, ambulances and other emergency services can still move through the area quickly.
Improving the road is a priority because Highway 216 has a history of stability problems, including a July 2022 bridge failure on Route 216 that closed a bridge and forced long detours, restricting access to the community. While the repairs are necessary for safety, residents are being asked to leave extra time for their trips. Unpredictable winter weather could change the timeline for when the work is finished.
