News Release: SuperBuild Investment Will Improve Traffic Flow in Toronto Area

For Immediate Release
May 17, 2002

SuperBuild Investment Will Improve Traffic Flow in Toronto Area

TORONTO — A $6.3 million project to upgrade the existing COMPASS Freeway Traffic Management System through the Highway 401 corridor in Toronto was announced today by Transportation Minister Norm Sterling.

"Ontario's COMPASS system uses a series of highway cameras, sensors and changeable message signs to alert motorists to oncoming traffic and road conditions," Sterling said. "When completed, this project will ensure that the province's state-of-the art traffic management system continues to improve traffic flow and enhance road safety."

This project has been awarded to Guild Electric Ltd. of Toronto. It will extend along Highway 401 from Highway 410 east to Ajax and includes the COMPASS communications system upgrade to a SONET/Ethernet based fibre optic network, and an integration into the existing Downsview COMPASS system.

"Upgrading this advanced traffic system will improve its reliability and allow for future COMPASS expansion to other provincial highways," Sterling said. "Our government has invested at record levels to ensure that 401 and highways across the province continue to keep people and goods moving safely and efficiently."

Due to the nature of the work, temporary lane closures may be required during off-peak hours.

Work on this contract is scheduled to start this spring and be completed by spring 2003.

This investment is part of the government's five-year, $20-billion SuperBuild initiative designed to facilitate the largest infrastructure-building program in Ontario's history. Since 1995, the Ontario government has invested about $6.5 billion in highway capital projects.