Ontario Proposes Legislation to Expedite Highway Construction

The Ontario government has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at accelerating the construction of certain highway projects. The proposed legislation, known as the Building Highways Faster Act, seeks to prioritize projects such as Highway 413, the Bradford Bypass, and the Garden City Skyway bridge. If passed, the act would streamline processes like utility relocations and property acquisitions, and introduce penalties for obstructing field investigations or damaging equipment. It would also allow for 24/7 construction on designated projects.

The government cites projected population growth as a key factor driving the need for these changes, with an additional two million residents expected in Ontario by 2031. The legislation is part of a broader effort to address traffic congestion and improve transportation infrastructure across the province.

The proposed changes are set to be discussed in the Ontario legislature during the fall session starting October 21, 2024. The government has also indicated plans to implement an accelerated environmental assessment process for Highway 413 to facilitate early works while maintaining environmental oversight.