The Government of Ontario announced that it will replace the Oshawa Wilson Road overpass in Durham, laying the groundwork to widen Highway 401.
“Whether it’s to get to work, visit friends and family, or transport goods, Highway 401 is a critical artery for people across the Greater Toronto Area,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation.
Construction on the Wilson Road overpass begins this summer with improvements to accommodate the replacement of the structure and the future widening of Highway 401. The project includes the installation of new taller light poles, upgrades to the existing noise barrier and new pedestrian sidewalks.
GIP Paving Inc. has been awarded the contract to replace the Oshawa Wilson Road overpass.
“This project is a game-changer for our community, paving the way for a more efficient and connected Durham,” said Todd McCarthy, MPP for Durham. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is committed to building vital roadways to keep our growing communities moving for generations to come.”
In addition to the Wilson Road overpass, the province is also replacing the Simcoe Street and Albert Street underpasses in Oshawa and rehabilitating two over-water bridges between Bowmanville and Clarington, as well as the overpass at the Highway 35/115 interchange west of Bowmanville and the Westney Road overpass on Highway 401 in Ajax.
“Congestion costs Ontario’s economy dearly, and that’s why the Ontario Chamber welcomes today’s announcement to improve roads and bridges that will support the future expansion of Highway 401 in Durham Region. Highway improvements and widening, alongside major transit investments, will move more people faster and spur economic growth. As the GTHA’s population grows, so must our economy – and that requires both long-term investment in infrastructure, and long-term partnerships between all governments and all stakeholders,” said Daniel Tisch, president and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
The eastern corridor of Highway 401 accommodates approximately 120,000 vehicles and 10,000 trucks carrying $380 million in goods everyday and is an essential part of Ontario’s network connecting eastern Ontario, Quebec and the US for international trade and economic development.
“Today’s announcement is great news for residents and commuters in the Durham region who will be spending less time on the road and more time with their loved ones. ORBA and its members commend the Ontario government on investing in critical transportation projects and connecting thousands of men and women with good-paying, local jobs in the process,” said Walid Abou-Hamde, CEO, Ontario Road Builders’ Association (ORBA).
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
