TORONTO, (Nov. 24, 2003) — The Federal Liberal government and the newly-elected Government of Ontario has committed $336 million for ten highway improvement projects in Ontario.

The plan — part of the federal government’s Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program (SHIP) program — will see federal and provincial governments each contribute $168 million to ten highway expansion projects on Hwy. 401, Hwy. 69/400, and Hwy. 17,over the next six years.

The projects slated for Hwy. 401 focus on expanding the existing roadway to increase capacity and enhance safety. Highway 401 between Windsor and Tilbury will be widened to six lanes, improving safety and facilitating trade. There will also be additional work on the 401 near Kingston and Belleville.

Infrastructure in Northern Ontario will also be improved with the four-laning of Highway 17 east of Sault Ste. Marie and a new alignment of Highway 11/17 west of Thunder Bay. Portions of Highway 69 will be upgraded to provide a four-lane divided highway between Northern and Southern Ontario, including projects south of Sudbury.

Ontario Trucking Association President David Bradley applauded the announcement — especially the government’s commitment to adding lanes on the 401 en route to Windsor. “It’s very encouraging to see the federal and provincial governments finally working together,” Bradley said.