No. H 191/08
For release - August 15, 2008

Canada and Ontario Announce Start of Construction On Essex County Road 22

WINDSOR — The governments of Canada and Ontario, in partnership with the County of Essex, today announced the start of construction for the widening of Essex County Road 22 from Lakeshore Boulevard to Patillo Road. This project is one of several projects under the Let's Get Windsor-Essex Moving strategy. Funding for this strategy comes from the Canada-Ontario Border Infrastructure Fund, a joint commitment by the federal and provincial governments to invest $300 million in strengthening the transportation networks in Windsor-Essex.

Coco Paving Inc. of Windsor has been awarded two contracts totalling $11.62 million to widen Essex County Road 22 from two to four lanes. Construction will be complete in 2009. This project includes the replacement of the Pike Creek Bridge and improvements at the Patillo Road intersection.

Essex County Road 22 will remain open during construction with limited delays to the travelling public. Signs will be posted to inform motorists of expected delays.

"The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of a reliable transportation network," said Jeff Watson, Member of Parliament for Essex. "Local transportation initiatives such as this will reduce traffic congestion, enhance the safety of Canada's transportation system and improve cross-border traffic that supports the continued economic growth of Essex County, Ontario and Canada."

"The McGuinty government is committed to keeping traffic flowing safely and efficiently through Essex County," said Bruce Crozier, Member of Provincial Parliament for Essex. "Improving safety and efficiency is important to Ontario's economic growth to keep this community strong."

"The County of Essex is very excited to see construction begin on this important project. Improving access in this corridor will benefit local travellers, businesses and commercial vehicles," said County of Essex Warden, Nelson Santos.

In addition to the widening of Essex County Road 22, construction is continuing on the Walker Road Canadian Pacific Railway grade separation and the Highway 401 widening between Highway 3 and Manning Road.

Completed projects announced as part of the Let's Get Windsor-Essex Moving strategy include:

• a pedestrian overpass on Huron Church Road at Assumption High School;
• intersection improvements on Highway 3 and Huron Church Road;
• the implementation of intelligent transportation systems such as traffic cameras to improve traffic management, video monitoring and driver information; and
• the installation of new signs for the Detroit-Windsor Truck Ferry.

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For more information on the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, please visit www.ontario.ca/transportation.

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