Ontario Construction News staff writer
GIP Paving Inc. has been awarded the contract to replace the Oshawa Wilson Road overpass in Durham, laying the groundwork for the widening of Highway 401.
“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,” said Walid Abou-Hamde, CEO, Ontario Road Builders’ Association (ORBA). “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.”
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.
The province also announced the replacement of the Simcoe Street and Albert Street underpasses in Oshawa, rehabilitation of two bridges between Bowmanville and Clarington, as and 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,” said said Daniel Tisch, president and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
About 120,000 vehicles and 10,000 trucks carrying $380 million in goods everyday use the eastern Highway 401 corridor each day, a connection for eastern Ontario, Quebec and the US for international trade and economic development.
“This project is a game-changer for our community, paving the way for a more efficient and connected Durham,” said Durham MPP Todd McCarthy. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is committed to building vital roadways to keep our growing communities moving for generations to come.”