Ontario Government Takes Over Thousand Islands Parkway Maintenance to Boost Local Tourism and Infrastructure
ROCKPORT — The Ontario government has announced it will take over the annual maintenance and rehabilitation of the Thousand Islands Parkway, a 40-kilometre scenic route in eastern Ontario. This move aims to alleviate the financial burden on the St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) and enhance the Parkway’s upkeep to benefit local communities, residents, and tourists.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria emphasized the importance of the Parkway as a key destination in the region. “The Thousand Islands Parkway is a landmark destination that countless families, businesses, and tourists rely on to see the best of eastern Ontario,” Sarkaria said. The initiative will allow the SLPC to redirect its resources toward improving trails, campsites, and other amenities that attract millions of visitors annually.
Under a new memorandum of understanding (MOU), the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) will assume responsibility for maintenance and infrastructure costs while conducting a comprehensive review of the Parkway. The review will include recommendations to further improve the management of the corridor. The province is also working with SLPC to develop a similar agreement for the Long Sault Parkway, located between Ingleside and Long Sault.
Bob Runciman, chairperson of the SLPC, lauded the agreement, highlighting its dual benefits for infrastructure and tourism. “The enhanced agreement ensures the safety and efficiency of our road infrastructure while enabling the St. Lawrence Parks Commission to reinvest in our parks and historic attractions,” Runciman said.
Big news for the region from Transportation Minister @PrabSarkaria today!
MTO is assuming responsibility for the Thousand Islands Parkway from @StLawrenceParks.
And they’re investing $27.5 million for Highway 401 improvements as part of the work to expand to six lanes.
🔗 Learn… pic.twitter.com/zJFPRBRMfw— Steve Clark (@SteveClarkPC) December 18, 2024
$27.5 Million Invested in Highway 401 Upgrades
In addition to the Parkway announcement, Ontario is investing $27.5 million to improve a nearly 17-kilometre stretch of Highway 401 between Mallorytown and Brockville. This project includes resurfacing, culvert repairs and replacements, new lighting at the County Road 2 ramp terminals, and rehabilitation of the Mallorytown Road underpass to support the highway’s future widening.
Local MPP Steve Clark underscored the economic and regional significance of these improvements. “Today’s announcement ensures the Thousand Islands Parkway will remain a vital link connecting visitors to one of Ontario’s most renowned tourist destinations – the world-famous 1000 Islands,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of the Highway 401 upgrades for local tourism and the quality of life for residents.
Highway 401’s eastern corridor sees approximately 120,000 vehicles and 10,000 trucks transporting $380 million in goods daily, making it a critical artery for Ontario’s economy. Recent provincial infrastructure investments include completing the Highway 49 Bay of Quinte Skyway Bridge project and awarding contracts to resurface sections of Highway 401 near Kingston.
These measures reflect Ontario’s commitment to preserving vital transportation routes while supporting tourism and local economies in eastern Ontario.
SOURCE: Province of Ontario
