In a landmark move, the Ontario and federal governments have announced a conclusive agreement that marks a significant milestone in the construction of Highway 413. This major infrastructure project, intended to link Milton and Vaughan on the western edge of the Greater Toronto Area, is now set to move forward after overcoming years of regulatory and environmental challenges.
The breakthrough came as both levels of government agreed to set aside the previous designation under the Impact Assessment Act, which had paused the project since 2021. This decision was ratified by a federal court order, following a joint application by the governments.
Under the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, a joint working group will be established to ensure that the project proceeds with minimal environmental impact. The group will focus on protecting federally regulated species and addressing other ecological concerns within the project’s scope.
Ontario’s Transportation Minister, Prabmeet Sarkaria, expressed his satisfaction with the resolution, stating, “This agreement brings much-needed certainty and allows us to proceed with key phases of the project. We are now poised to get shovels in the ground on key interchanges, bringing us one step closer to realizing this vital corridor.”
Adding to the significance of the day, Amarjot Sandhu, MPP Brampton West and a notable figure in the project’s advocacy, declared it a historic day for Ontario. “A historic day for the people of Ontario . We’re getting Highway 413 done,” he stated, highlighting the project’s importance in easing regional congestion and enhancing transportation efficiency.
This development marks a resolution to the long-standing dispute between the government levels and outlines a future where environmental considerations and infrastructural needs are balanced effectively.