Ont service centre overhaul projects continue

TRENTON, Ont. — Another highway service center, this one on Highway 401 near Trenton, has closed while undergoing a makeover.

It’s one of 23 Ontario service centers and truckstops that is scheduled to be temporarily shuttered and modernized after their leases expire. Many of the new facilities are expected to expand rest area capacity for truck drivers.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure of Ontario recently unveiled the short list of companies who are vying to design, build, finance, maintain and operate the revamped facilities along Highways 400 and 401. The winning bid is expected to be announced later this year.

Several are currently undergoing renovations, including one outside Cornwall near the Ontario-Quebec border and one in Chatham, Ont.

The stations will not sell fuel, but some facilities may offer facilities such as washrooms and parking spaces.

The private operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining the centers going forward.