Study Overview

Several alternative designs were identified and evaluated as part of the previous Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment (EA) study completed in June 2020. The purpose of the study was to identify a Technically and Environmentally Preferred Alternative (TEPA) for improvements to the ramp terminal intersections at Highway 416 and County Road 43.

Several alternative designs were identified and were presented for review and feedback. Based on the evaluation and feedback received, a TEPA was identified and it included traffic signals at both ramp terminal intersections, as well as other related improvements. The purpose of the Detail Design and Class EA (this study), is to further refine the TEPA to a construction level of detail.

Based on the Detail Design, the majority of work is anticipated to occur within the existing, previously disturbed MTO right-of-way (ROW) and includes the following scope:

• Installation of traffic signals, including illumination, at the east and west ramp terminals of Highway 416 and County Road 43

• Addition of a second eastbound through lane at the west ramp terminal intersection

• Modifications of ramp terminals at County Road 43 to accommodate traffic signal installation, including partial realignment of the W-S ramp

• Implementation of Highway 416 and County Road 43 exit ramp illumination

• Mill and pave all ramps

• Replacement of culverts through the interchange based on their existing condition

• Replacement and relocation of four extruded ground mounted signs on Highway 416

Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2024, subject to provincial priorities, funding and approvals. Based on the above scope of work, temporary lane and ramp closures will be required to accommodate the proposed improvements and scheduled to avoid peak traffic volume, where practical. More information is available in the Design and Construction Report (March 2022).