Ontario Construction News staff writer
The final phase of widening Highway 3 between Essex and Leamington is underway.
The expansion of 15.6 kilometres of Highway 3 from two to four lanes will also include the widening of five existing intersections, the installation of traffic signals to three other intersections and resurfacing of existing lanes.
“The Town of Essex is thrilled to see the Highway 3 Widening Project advance with the start of construction of the final phase,” said Sherry Bondy, Mayor of the Town of Essex. “This initiative is vital to our region, as Highway 3 serves as a critical connection between our community and neighbouring areas.
“The expansion of this roadway will enhance safety, improve connectivity, and increase economic opportunities for our residents and businesses, contributing to a brighter future for our region.”
Construction to widen Highway 3 from Maidstone Avenue to Arner Townline in Essex was completed last year.
“I am thrilled to witness the start of the final phase in the expansion of Highway 3 from Essex to Leamington,” said Hilda MacDonald, Mayor of the Municipality of Leamington, and Warden of Essex County. “This significant development marks a pivotal step toward cutting down commute times and enhancing the safety and efficiency of travel for residents and the countless individuals and businesses reliant on this critical route.
“We are deeply appreciative of the Ontario government’s investment in improving our infrastructure and look forward to the positive impacts this expansion will bring to our community and the region as a whole.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford was in Windsor this week to announce $50 million to build a new interchange at Banwell Road and E.C. Row.
“As the region’s economy expands, we need to ensure we’re building the infrastructure to keep up with this growth,” Ford said. “We’re building new roads and highways to keep up with the growing demand that we see here, and keep people moving and goods moving safely.”
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said he was “ecstatic” about the funding for the city interchange. With about two years left before the electric vehicle battery plant opens, he said the city could not complete the interchange project without the province’s contribution.
“This is an incredible level of support for a project like this,” Dilkens said. “It will be amazing to see that intersection completely reconstructed to a point where it now flows properly and helps support that incredible factory that’s being built at that corner.”
About nine months ago the provincial government awarded a contract to design, build, and finance the widening of Highway 3 between Essex and Leamington for $138 million.
“This funding will move our commuters and residents more efficiently, especially to and from Canada’s first EV battery plant and the fastest growing area of our city,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkins. “It is a great day for Windsor.
“The continued project for the widening of Highway 3 will be a game-changer for Windsor and Essex County during this exciting time of economic growth and development in our region.”