Ontario Government Commences Major Highway 400 Expansion and Bradford Bypass Interchange Construction
BRADFORD — The Ontario government has commenced a significant infrastructure project aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the Greater Golden Horseshoe. Construction has begun on a new interchange at Highway 400 and Simcoe County Road 88, along with a new southbound lane on Highway 400 that will eventually connect to the future Bradford Bypass.
This development marks a critical step in the province’s strategy to reduce traffic gridlock, enhance commuter efficiency, and generate employment opportunities in the region.
Significant Infrastructure Investment
“Our government is delivering on its promise to build the Bradford Bypass, expand our highway network, and get people where they need to go,” stated Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Combined with the widening of Highway 400, these investments will help tackle gridlock, shorten travel times, and drive economic growth.”
The construction contract has been awarded to Dufferin Construction Company. It includes several key projects:
- Construction of a portion of a southbound lane on Highway 400 to connect with the Bradford Bypass
- Reconstruction of the Highway 400-Simcoe County Road 88 interchange and underpass bridge
- Widening of Simcoe County Road 88 from two to four lanes
- Expansion of the Highway 400 platform to accommodate future growth to 10 lanes
Our government is delivering on our promise to build the Bradford Bypass! 🛣️
We’re getting shovels in the ground to build a new interchange at Highway 400 and Simcoe County Road 88 and a new southbound lane on Highway 400 that will connect to the future Bradford Bypass. pic.twitter.com/3Dq7it60ON
— Prabmeet Sarkaria (@PrabSarkaria) July 17, 2024
A Long-Awaited Project
“The people of York-Simcoe have been asking for the Bradford Bypass for nearly 50 years,” said Caroline Mulroney, MPP for York-Simcoe. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is getting it done. We’re building new highways and expanding area roads that will ease congestion around Bradford West Gwillimbury, making life easier for area residents and commuters across York Region and Simcoe County.”
In May, the Ontario government awarded the contract for the detailed design of the west section of the Bradford Bypass. This section will span 6.5 kilometers from Highway 400 to Simcoe County Road 4. The Bradford Bypass is anticipated to be a crucial link for communities in York Region and Simcoe County, providing better connections to employment opportunities and housing.
Economic and Employment Benefits
During its construction phase, the Bradford Bypass project is expected to support up to 2,200 jobs annually and contribute up to $286 million to Ontario’s gross domestic product (GDP). These developments are projected to significantly ease traffic congestion, improve travel times, and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding areas.
This infrastructure investment underscores the Ontario government’s commitment to enhancing the transportation network, ensuring smoother commutes, and fostering economic prosperity in the Greater Golden Horseshoe.
For more updates on this and other transportation projects, stay tuned to GTA Today.