Significant long-term lane closures commenced today on the Gardiner Expressway as part of ongoing rehabilitation efforts. As of Wednesday, April 15, 2025, the westbound Gardiner Expressway has been reduced from four lanes to three lanes, specifically between Park Lawn Road and Grand Avenue. This reduction is expected to remain in effect until May 2026, impacting vehicular traffic in that area.
In addition to the westbound lane reductions, the eastbound Gardiner Expressway will experience lane narrows from Grand Avenue to just east of Park Lawn Road until November 2026. However, there will be no complete lane reductions in this segment, which aims to maintain some level of traffic flow as rehabilitation work progresses.
This rehabilitation project focuses on critical repairs to five bridges along the Gardiner Expressway, as these have been identified as requiring immediate attention. While a comprehensive rehabilitation of this section of the expressway is slated to begin as early as 2027, the urgency of the repairs for these bridges means that work must commence prior to that date.
According to a news release from the city, condition assessments highlighted the necessity for these repairs in advance of the full rehabilitation, indicating the deteriorating condition of the structures. The ongoing infrastructure improvements are crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of this vital transportation route.
On April 7, 2023, another related change was noted, where Islington Avenue, which runs over the Gardiner Expressway, was reduced from three lanes in each direction to just two lanes in each direction. This reduction aligns with the broader changes being executed on the expressway and affects traffic patterns in the area.
Furthermore, Kipling Avenue is also scheduled to undergo a reduction in lanes, decreasing from three lanes to two in each direction at the overpass above the Gardiner Expressway. However, the start date for this particular lane reduction has not yet been confirmed.
As these changes take effect, drivers are advised to plan their travel routes accordingly and remain alert to potential delays in the affected areas. The city's focus on repairing these critical infrastructures aims to enhance safety and improve overall travel conditions on one of Toronto’s major highways.
The maintenance and rehabilitation of the Gardiner Expressway underscore the importance of preserving transportation infrastructure, reflecting a commitment to public safety and accessibility for all road users.
