Premier Doug Ford held a conference in Etobicoke yesterday, where he announced a bold plan to build a tunnel underneath Highway 401, ideally from Brampton to Scarborough. This project aims to tackle the growing traffic issues on the 401. It is part of Ford's ongoing commitment to enhancing transportation in Ontario.
Ford explained that a feasibility study will be conducted. The study will not dictate if the tunnel will be built but will determine the length of the tunnel. The government intends to finance the project in stages over several years. They plan to start with a soil testing to get a better idea of the construction timeline. Ford said numerous times throughout the conference that there will be “shovels in the ground" soon.
Premier Ford called out Liberal Party leader Bonnie Crombie, predicting her opposition to the tunnel. He made it clear that, regardless of differing opinions, this infrastructure is essential.
Ford pointed out that by 2051, travel times in the area could double, potentially adding an extra 90 minutes to commutes. Currently, drivers spend an average of 98 hours a year stuck in traffic, and without action, that could triple.
The proposed tunnel is designed to serve as an expressway, helping cars travel east to west and connecting to major roads. Ford also said that there would be no tolls on this tunnel or any other highways, a notable difference from Highway 407, which has faced criticism for its tolls. Many Torontonians have taken to social media to express their belief that the tunnel is unnecessary. They argue that the government should subsidize tolls on Highway 407 and move all transport vehicles to that highway, leaving Highway 401 for cars only.
Ford positioned his government as a "government of action," highlighting achievements over the past six years. These include expanding transit services, doubling transit capacity, and building hospitals and long-term care facilities. He expressed confidence that the tunnel project would be another success.
Additionally, Ford said that all 400-series highways will have a speed restriction increase from 100 to 110 km/h. This action fits with the government's larger plan for improving transportation and is anticipated to increase travel efficiency on Ontario's major routes.
Sid Seixerio Co-host of Breakfast Television says he won’t dump on this idea. Seixerio continued he does not agree with everything Ford has said but this is not the craziest idea he has ever heard. Critics are likely to raise concerns about the feasibility and environmental impact of such a large project. Questions about potential disruptions during construction and the long-term ecological effects will be central to the conversation. Ford’s administration stands firm in its belief that major infrastructure improvements are crucial to meet the needs of Ontario’s growing population and economy.
Seeing how the Ford administration addresses transit demands while addressing sustainability and urban growth issues is great interest to many Torontonians. It remains to be seen if this tunnel materializes and contributes to easing the ongoing traffic problems in the Greater Toronto Area.
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