WINDSOR, Ont. — The first phase of the widening of Hwy. 401 between Windsor and Tilbury is now complete, the province has announced.

The enhancements, aimed at improving traffic flow leading to Canada’s busiest border crossing, include: widening the 401 from four to six lanes; installing a concrete median barrier to improve safety; and improving the Essex Rd. 42 and Hwy. 77 interchanges.

Phase 2 involves further widening of the 401 between Puce Road and Manning Road. That stage will be completed by fall or 2006, the province has announced.

“Highway infrastructure is critical to Canada’s ability to safely and efficiently transport people and goods and to compete in the North American economy,” said local MP, Jerry Pickard. “The people of Essex will greatly benefit from the improved safety and traffic flow on this important stretch of highway.”

“The strength of Ontario’s economy is critical to our province’s future. This corridor is an important link in the movement of people and goods to Ontario’s largest international border crossing that carries more than 9,000 trucks per day,” added Ontario Transport Minister, Harinder Takhar.