The Government of Ontario has announced that construction has begun to expand Highway 3 in St. Thomas.
This expansion project for Highway 3 will create a connection to Volkswagen’s new Power Co electric-vehicle gigafactory, which is currently being built.
“The expansion of Highway 3 will connect people to good-paying jobs, support housing growth and help businesses access the workforce they need to drive economic growth,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation.
Work has commenced on nearly seven kilometres of Highway 3 from Centennial Avenue to Ron Mc Neil Line, allowing drivers to link up with the upcoming Talbotville Bypass. When completed, both the Talbotville Bypass and the expanded Highway 3 will provide a direct route from Highway 401 to St. Thomas, fostering residential, commercial and industrial development across Elgin County as the province works towards building a stronger economy.
“As our government continues to attract historic, job-creating investments from global companies, we are investing in critical infrastructure to support this growth,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “By expanding Highway 3, we will strengthen access to the St. Thomas Industrial Park, reduce commute times for workers, and position the region to attract new businesses.”
In April 2023, Volkswagen Group announced a $7-billion investment for an EV battery manufacturing facility in St. Thomas. With construction now underway, this investment is already generating good-paying jobs and boosting economic growth in southwestern Ontario. Last year saw crews beginning concrete work for what is expected to be Canada’s largest EV battery manufacturing plant.
“The City of St. Thomas welcomes the Province’s continued progress on Highway 3 twinning. Advancing enabling works such as utility relocations and grading is an important milestone toward full construction beginning in 2027. This project will improve safety, strengthen connections for residents and businesses, and support the continued growth and economic development of St. Thomas, the broader region, and Southwestern Ontario,” said Joe Preston, Mayor of the City of St. Thomas.
Featured image: (Government Ontario)
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