The deputy fire chief in Lapland says worsening conditions on Lapland Road are once again putting people at risk.

Jeremy MacEachern says the gravel portion of the road has deteriorated badly in recent weeks, with deep ruts, washouts, and exposed rock damaging vehicles and making it difficult for first responders to get through.

“Some of our firefighters can’t even travel it anymore,” said MacEachern. “I don’t know if we could even get our fire trucks down there—or if we’d make it through—or get stuck.”

A vehicle recently lost its oil pan and a wheel on the road. With spring rains approaching, MacEachern says the road could soon become impassable.

The issue first drew attention in 2024, when residents reported similar problems, including flooding, poor drainage, and serious concerns about emergency access. At the time, the Department of Public Works said more work was planned under the province’s Gravel Road Program, including a two-kilometre rebuild toward Adelbert Wile Road.

But nearly a year later, the problem is back—and MacEachern says none of the promised long-term upgrades ever happened.

“Even their own workers admit the good gravel is gone,” he said. “They need to put down a couple feet of new gravel and do it right.”

Only a small section of the road received a light topping last year. The paved area near the fire hall saw a skim coat, but MacEachern says the majority of the gravel section was left alone and is now in worse shape than before.

He says he’s made repeated efforts to raise the issue with Public Works but hasn’t received a call back.

The road is used daily by residents, farmers, logging trucks, and heavy construction equipment. MacEachern says it should be considered vital infrastructure.

“It’s not about comfort. It’s about access. If we’re delayed getting to a fire, or can’t get through, that puts people in danger.”