Overview

Building A Better Ontario

Transportation is important to every Ontarian and equally important to Ontario's well being. A safe and efficient transportation network is crucial to Ontario's economic prosperity and quality of life.

By improving and maintaining Ontario's transportation infrastructure we are creating jobs, supporting growing urban centres, helping businesses compete in the global marketplace and keeping Ontario families safe.

Ontario recognizes that transportation and the environment are closely connected. That is why we are committed to promoting sustainability in transportation planning to tackle congestion, accommodate growth and keep goods and people moving. A sustainable transportation system is one that recognizes and supports our current needs while balancing social, economic and environmental considerations.

The decisions we make today will affect future generations. This is why we must plan and use our highways more wisely, encourage people to use public transit and explore alternative fuels and technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment.

For example, 100 per cent of reclaimed pavement is made available to our contractors, allowing them to combine new and recycled asphalt for paving. Significant portions of Ontario's stone, sand and gravel needs are met with recycled, re-used or non-traditional materials such as roofing shingles, glass and ash. As a result, Ontario is saving energy, conserving natural materials and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

By balancing social, economic and environmental considerations, Ontario is working to ensure a safe, prosperous and environmentally responsible future for all those who live and do business in Ontario.

The Southern Highways Program

This document presents the most recent annual update of the five-year construction program for Southern Ontario highways, keeping Ontarians apprised of where and when highways will be improved. The first Southern Ontario Program was published in 2006, in conjunction with the 2005 ReNew Ontario, a $30-billion plan to strengthen Ontario's economy and communities. The ReNew Ontario plan set out a $3.4-billion program for the renewal and expansion of southern highways over five years.

The Southern Highways Program is published annually to provide a clear understanding of where and how tax dollars are being spent.

This year, the Ontario government will invest a record amount of more than $2 billion to repair and expand highways, roads and bridges across the province, with $927 million designated for Southern Ontario highway construction.

Bridges are the backbone of Ontario's transportation network as they connect communities and provide access to economic opportunities. That is why the government is investing an additional $284 million over five-years for bridge repair and replacement in Southern Ontario — with $19 million expected to be invested this year.

The 2008-2012 Southern Highways Program lists all major highway projects already under construction or starting this year. The program also provides a five-year outlook, listing projects planned through to 2012. Several hundred smaller valued projects, not listed in this document, will also be completed in 2008.

We will continue to do our part and to pursue every opportunity to discuss new funding partnerships with the federal government. By working together, we will create a highway system capable of supporting economic growth and prosperity across Ontario for decades to come.