YORKTON, Sask. — The province of Saskatchewan opened a new commercial vehicle inspection station here yesterday.

Highways and Infrastructure Minister, Wayne Elhard, cut the ribbon at the new weigh scale and claimed the area is becoming a business hub.

“With its well-developed network of highways and two major rail lines that link to export markets, the Yorkton advantage is clear,” said Elhard. “We want to ensure the current economic momentum continues both here in Yorkton and the province as a whole. One of the best ways to do that is to improve and maintain transportation infrastructure so critical for economic development.”

The new inspection station was built at a cost of $556,000 and replaces a facility that was built in the 1950s. The station will allow for the weighing and inspection of more than 11,000 trucks per year, the province says.

“Our Transport Compliance officers help prevent accidents and protect our roads by ensuring commercial vehicles move safely across Saskatchewan,” Elhard said. “This new facility will go a long way to making sure our employees have the right tools to carry out their enforcement activities.”

The inspection station has been raised to allow officers to speak with drivers at eye level. It’s expected about 60 trucks will pass through the scale each shift. Four permanent staff will run the station.