The governments of Canada and Ontario announced the widening of Highway 401 from six to ten lanes in the Cambridge area. This major highway expansion is expected to relieve congestion, shorten commute times, and ensure the safe and reliable movement of essential goods along Canada’s busiest highway and trade corridor.
“Highway 401 is a lifeline for travel and the movement of goods throughout our province and that’s why we are making historic investments to expand and modernize it,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “Together with our federal partners, we are investing in these critical infrastructure projects to drive economic growth and create jobs during these extremely difficult times.”
“Investments in modern transportation infrastructure are important to building strong communities and thriving businesses,” said the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “The widening of Highway 401 in Cambridge, including the creation of high occupancy vehicle lanes, will make it easier and safer for Ontarians and local businesses to get to their destination. With our partners, we’re building transportation networks that support a strong economy, and the safe movement of people and goods.”
The highway will be widened from six to ten lanes between Hespeler Road and Townline Road. Construction on the project, which includes High Occupancy Vehicle lanes, is expected to begin later this year.
Highway 401 is an essential part of Ontario’s highway network connecting the Greater Toronto Area with southwestern Ontario and the U.S. for international trade and economic development.
In 2017 the Government of Canada committed to funding up to 50 per cent of eligible costs to a maximum of $96 million through the Building Canada Fund–Major Infrastructure Component of the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan.
This project is the second widening project in Cambridge. The widening of Highway 401 from Highway 8 to Hespeler Road was completed in 2019.