Ontario Construction News staff writer
RENFREW – The Ontario government has put out a request for proposals to design the expansion of Highway 17 from two lanes to four between Arnprior and Renfrew, moving ahead with plans to twin a vital part of the Trans-Canada Highway corridor in eastern Ontario.
The province aims to twin 22.5 kilometres of Highway 17 from Scheel Drive near Arnprior to three kilometres west of Bruce Street close to Renfrew.
Highway 17 is a key section of the Trans-Canada Highway system and acts as a major trade route connecting communities throughout eastern Ontario.
Ric Bresee, parliamentary assistant to the minister of transportation, stated that infrastructure investments are essential as U. S. tariffs continue impacting Canadian families and businesses.
“Expanding Highway 17 will secure a vital trade corridor, fight gridlock and support good-paying jobs during construction,” Bresee said in a statement.
The first phase of the project was finished in November 2023 with the building of a new bridge and interchange at Highway 17 and Calabogie Road.
Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP Billy Denault mentioned that this expansion marks an important step forward for the Ottawa Valley.
“This stretch of highway is a critical artery in the Ottawa Valley, connecting communities, supporting our economy and carrying families safely home each night,” Denault said.
The province announced it will invest $30 billion to build, repair, and expand highways, roads, and bridges across Ontario. Alongside the Calabogie Road interchange, three new interchanges are planned as part of the Highway 17 expansion projects within Renfrew County.
The announcement has been welcomed by industry leaders.
“RCCAO is delighted with the progress to expand Highway 17, a significant and meaningful milestone for Eastern Ontario and our province’s infrastructure network,” said Nadia Todorova, executive director at Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario. “As a critical link in the Trans-Canada Highway corridor, this investment will enhance safety, ease congestion and support the efficient movement of goods and people.”
“We commend the Government of Ontario for continuing to prioritize investment in critical transportation infrastructure that creates jobs, drives economic growth and builds stronger, more resilient communities.”
Renfrew County Warden Jennifer Murphy expressed that this project represents an investment in safety for the future of Ottawa Valley. Horton Township Mayor Daina Proctor noted that twinning will boost safety and emergency access while Renfrew Mayor Tom Sidney added that a four-lane Highway 17 will enhance connections to jobs and services.
Mc Nab/Braeside Mayor Lori Hoddinott shared her enthusiasm about collaborating with the province on advancing this project.
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