The Government of Ontario in Canada has completed the widening of Highway 401 in Kingston from four to six lanes between west of the Cataraqui River Bridge to Highway 15.

Highway 401 is one of the arterial routes in the Ontario’s highway network that connects the Greater Toronto Area with southeastern Ontario and the US for international trade and economic development.

Ontario invested C$26.8m for expanding the highway used by nearly 60,000 commuters on a daily basis.

Ontario Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney said: “Investing in critical highway infrastructure is a key part of our plan to support local communities, drive economic growth, create jobs and keep families safe.

“The completion of this project will reduce congestion and enhance safety along this vital commercial corridor.”

Completion of the expansion work is expected to improve safety, connect communities and support economic growth in the region.

In addition to enhancing the safety of the travellers, the expansion is expected to facilitate a reliable movement of essential goods.

Speaking of the development, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark said: “The increase in lanes on Highway 401 is great news for Kingston and families across our entire region.

“The Highway 401 and Highway 15 interchange provides access to the Canadian Forces Base, as well as many businesses and distribution centres located at the east end of Kingston.

“It’s an essential part of our province’s supply chain and serves as a major access point to the City of Kingston for commercial, recreational and local traffic.”