Ontario Construction News staff writer
A groundbreaking ceremony last week launched construction on Highlight Motor Group’s new million-square-foot transportation and storage facility in Bradford-West Gwillimbury (BWG).
The company specializes in shipping and warehousing, with about 1,500 trailers and 760 trucks across seven locations across North America. The new $250-million site will house the headquarters, one million square feet of office and warehouse space, a yard for tractor trailers and a repair shop.
Construction of the company’s new headquarters includes a 350,000 sq. ft. warehouse, outdoor yard and repair shop at a strategic decision that involved the purchase of 100 acres of property in the town’s Highway 400 employment lands area.
“I am thrilled that Highlight Motor Group has chosen to build their future in Bradford West Gwillimbury,” said BWG Mayor James Leduc. “Their investment in a new headquarters along our Highway 400 Employment Lands, paired with providing thousands of new jobs for our residents is very much welcomed in our community.
“Today’s groundbreaking ceremony represents another successful chapter of economic expansion in BWG, marking the culmination of years of work by our counci and staff to build the infrastructure necessary to establish a modern industrial corridor along Highway 400 and attract world-class companies like Highlight Motor Group.”
Established in 2007, Highlight Motor Group is one of the 50 fastest growing transportation and logistics companies in Canada, with seven facilities located across North America and a fleet of more than 700 vehicles.
Officials say the site was chosen for its strategic location between Greater Toronto and the communities to the north with access to Highway 400 and two major interchanges, as well as the upcoming Bradford Bypass (Highway 400/404 Link).
The project will create jobs in a new industrial park and stimulate infrastructure growth in surrounding communities, the mayor stated.