The loud noise experienced in La Ronge last week put residents on edge. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

road work

Loud bang attributed to quarry blasting near La Ronge

Nov 29, 2023 | 2:09 PM

A loud blast that shook the homes of tri-community residents is being attributed to work in a quarry north of La Ronge to unearth large rocks.

That’s according to a statement from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highway, which notes the loud bang on Nov. 24 came from a quarry owned by Potzus Paving Ltd. Gravel from that blast will be used by the Lac La Ronge Indian Band.

A second, larger blast is currently scheduled for Dec. 15. Gravel from the second blasting will be used for a $28 million project to improve about 25 kilometers of Highway 102 and an access road at Sucker River.

No other blasting at the quarry is expected for the remainder of 2023.

The Highway 102 project is expected to begin in the spring of 2024. It involves reinforcing the subgrade beneath the road’s surface, followed by paving with asphalt.

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The statement adds the existing road is a thin membrane surface highway. The new road will have new pavement, which will eliminate the existing rutting and potholes and give the travelling public a smoother ride. The project is targeted for completion by the end of 2025, pending weather and contractor progress.

“The ministry appreciates the understanding of La Ronge area residents as the province continues to build, protect, and improve Saskatchewan’s transportation system to support its export-based economy,” the statement notes.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com