Construction work on the Gardiner Expressway, spanning from Dufferin to Strachan, is slated for completion and all lanes are expected to reopen by the end of this month, with a possible early opening as soon as Monday, Oct. 27. This accelerated finish date, almost six months ahead of schedule, is attributed to a $73 million investment by the Ford government to expedite the project, allowing for continuous construction work.
Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria expressed enthusiasm over the progress, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the government and the City of Toronto that enabled the project to advance rapidly. The decision to operate construction crews around the clock has significantly contributed to the timely completion of the construction.
The extensive construction initiative, which commenced in March 2024 to replace a 700-meter section of the concrete deck and girders, as well as other necessary repairs between Dufferin Street and Strachan, was initially projected to finish by April 2027. However, Mayor Olivia Chow announced in August a notable reduction in the completion timeline, now expected to be achieved much sooner.
Responsibility for the rehabilitation of the Gardiner Expressway, along with the Don Valley Parkway, was transferred to the provincial government by the city two years ago. Minister Sarkaria expressed gratitude towards the workforce involved in the project and emphasized the intention to apply the acquired knowledge and strategies to expedite similar road constructions in various regions.
The Gardiner Expressway holds a vital role as a major thoroughfare, accommodating over 100,000 vehicles daily. Recent research unveiled a significant surge in travel times on the expressway during peak hours, indicating the urgency for infrastructure improvements. The completion of this construction project is anticipated to relieve traffic congestion and enhance commuter experiences along this crucial route.