News Release: Eves government invests in highway 404 to fuel economy in York Region

For Immediate Release
August 2, 2002

Eves government invests in highway 404 to fuel economy in York Region

RICHMOND HILL — The Ernie Eves government is investing $3.4 million to improve driving conditions at the Highway 404/16th Avenue interchange in the Town of Richmond Hill, Transportation Minister Norm Sterling and Oak Ridges MPP Frank Klees announced today. The project is part of a partnership agreement between the Government of Ontario and the Region of York.

"Our government's record investment in highway infrastructure is fueling economic growth throughout Ontario," said Sterling. "When completed, this project will substantially improve driving conditions and safety throughout this growing community."

The province will fund two-thirds of the project's cost with the region covering the remaining one third. The project is part of a partnership arrangement signed in 2000.

"The Highway 404 project will benefit Richmond Hill area businesses and residents alike," said Klees. "This work is part of the government's commitment to ensure our highway infrastructure meets the growing needs of this region."

The contract was awarded to Brennan Paving and Construction of Markham. The project includes the addition of two new ramps at the Highway 404 and 16th Avenue interchange. This work also includes the installation of lights along 16th Avenue east of Highway 404, and new traffic signals on 16th Avenue west of Highway 404. Construction began in July and will be completed by winter 2002.

"I am pleased to see work beginning on this project," said York Regional Chair Bill Fisch. "It will improve transportation routes in Richmond Hill and support future development."

While there will be lane closures on 16th Avenue for most of the construction, one lane in each direction will be open and Highway 404 will require occasional nightly lane closures.

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 more than $6.5 billion in highway capital projects.

For the most up-to-date information on highway construction and road conditions in the GTA, call the Ministry of Transportation's information line at 416-235-4686. For information on provincial highways across Ontario outside of the GTA, call toll free at 1-800-268-4686.