Ontario Moving Forward With Widening Highway 401 In Cambridge
Expansion will relieve congestion, shorten commute times and spur economic growth
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 will relieve congestion, shorten commute times and ensure the safe and reliable movement of essential goods along Canada’s busiest highway and critical 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.
“The work to widen Highway 401 will improve traffic flow and make travel safer for residents and businesses,” said Bryan May, Member of Parliament for Cambridge. “The project will also make transportation of goods through our region more efficient. Ultimately, safer roads with less congestion will keep Cambridge moving.”
“Widening Highway 401 in the Cambridge area will bring economic benefits to our local community and make it easier for businesses and families travelling on this vital highway corridor,” said Belinda Karahalios, MPP for Cambridge. “This announcement is part of our government’s commitment to this region and for keeping the province moving.”
“Everyone in the Region of Waterloo knows how important the 401 is to our communities.” said Amy Fee, MPP for Kitchener South-Hespeler. “This investment will reduce travel times and help keep goods moving through this critical trade link and improve the quality of life in our growing region.”
“Our government is ensuring that the necessary investments are taking place to keep Southwestern Ontario moving.” said Mike Harris, MPP for Kitchener-Conestoga. “Widening the 401 is part of the government’s plan to improve outdated infrastructure and make travel safer, easier and faster for families and businesses.”
Quick Facts:
- Highway 401 is an essential part of Ontario’s highway network connecting the Greater Toronto Area with southwestern Ontario and the US 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.
