Province takes Toronto highways

Ontario to assume Gardiner, DVP ownership by 2027, boosting Toronto's infrastructure funds

Ontario will formally assume ownership and responsibility for the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway in fall 2027 as part of the New Deal for Toronto. Premier Doug Ford says the move will help reduce gridlock and keep the highways safe and reliable while also pledging they will remain toll-free. During the transition period, Ontario will provide up to $353 million to the City of Toronto to cover operating and maintenance until the transfer is complete, with additional past funding aimed at ongoing upkeep and speeding repairs. The City says uploading the roads will eliminate its largest state-of-good-repair liability and unlock about $1.9 billion for investments such as transit and housing, allowing Toronto to redirect resources to other local infrastructure. Mayor Olivia Chow and city officials frame the agreement as a cooperative step that lowers the financial burden on taxpayers, while also noting recent repair issues such as lane closures for pothole work. Reporting also indicates the highway handoff is tied to the broader New Deal bargain, including the City dropping its fight over aspects of Ontario Place renovations and Science Centre relocation.

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