A 2-vehicle collision south of Ile des Chene this morning closed Hwy 59 for just over an hour. 

Hwy 59 was reopened to traffic by 8:30 am.

Ritchot Fire Chief Paul Houle says the 911 call came in about 7 am to the intersection of Hwy 59 and 210 turn off.  

“Niverville First Responders and EMS also attended the scene. Niverville Towing had removed vehicles by about 8:30 am and the road was reopened to traffic.”  

Houle says, at the time the road was snow-covered and somewhat slippery. He says three EMS units responded, and some patients were transported to the hospital by ground ambulance. However, the extent of the injuries is unknown at this time.  

Houle thanks the public for their patience during this morning’s commute. “I understand that traffic was backed up all the way to the 311 (the Niverville turn-off).” 

And reminds drivers that during traffic backups and highway closures, “that it's pretty common for emergency and supported vehicles to travel in the lane opposing traffic to access the emergency scene. So please keep that lane clear.” 

Houle says that section of Hwy 59 was closed for about 90 minutes.