Today's news: Lakehead University opens dormitories to receive fire evacuees, Thunder Bay's $55 million infrastructure project is about to begin

Lakehead University opens residence to support wildfire evacuees

As residents in many northern areas are forced to evacuate due to wildfires, Lakehead University in Thunder Bay has stepped in, temporarily using its residence as an emergency shelter. The university has already taken in over a hundred people, mainly from Indigenous communities such as Pikangikum First Nation, which has been severely affected.

City Councillor Albert Aiello praised the move as an example of "community solidarity," noting that "the housing and living support provided by the university is a critical lifeline for those forced from their homes."

In addition to providing shelter, the university is coordinating cafeteria services, health support, and cultural adaptation resources to help evacuees through this turbulent time. The shelter operation is currently being carried out in partnership with the Canadian Red Cross.

Thunder Bay to launch $55 million infrastructure project covering key sections

On another note, the City of Thunder Bay has announced that this month it will begin infrastructure projects totaling up to $55 million, focusing mainly on maintenance and upgrades to roads, water supply, and sewage systems.

The projects cover the following main areas:

Road resurfacing at key intersections such as Oliver Road and Balmoral Street;

Replacement of underground water pipes between Vickers Street North and Southern Avenue;

Bridge inspections in the McIntyre River area;

And sidewalk improvements and drainage upgrades on several community roads.

Kayla Dixon, the city's manager of engineering services, said this year's construction season is busy but well planned. She reminded residents to plan their travel and follow construction traffic signs.

The work will continue throughout the summer, with some projects extending into the fall, aiming to improve the city's overall infrastructure quality and resilience to extreme weather.