The general manager of the Ponton Service Station says there are plans in motion to rebuild the rest stop.

 

Audrey Ducharme explains that phase one of the new facility is complete, and that the next step is to set up the water, sewage, and gas systems.

 

She adds that they’re looking to adding electric vehicle charging stations at the new rest stop.

 

The Ponton Service Station burned last year, leaving many people traveling to and from Thompson without a rest area until Grand Rapids.

 

Ducharme says that not only was the destruction of the station a loss for travelers, but also Cross Lake First Nation, as 14 members of the community were employed at the facility.

 

While an exact date of the opening of the new station wasn’t discussed, Ducharme explains that Cross Lake is working around the clock to ensure the new service station is fully operational as soon as possible.