Overview

Project Overview

The Detail Design study has been completed and a Design and Construction Report (DCR) was prepared to document this project. For more information, please see the DCR report in the Documentation section. 

In 2001, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) undertook a Planning and Preliminary Design Study to identify required improvements and widening requirements along 30 km of Highway 400 from 1 km south of Highway 89 to the junction at Highway 11. The study was updated in 2017 to address changes throughout the corridor.

This Detail Design study, which includes the improvements listed below, was undertaken to replace the aging infrastructure at Essa Road and supports the future ultimate widening of Highway 400 throughout the corridor.

Project Description

A Design and Construction Report (DCR) has been prepared to summarize the recommended plan, which includes the following improvements: 

  • Replacement of the Highway 400 bridges at Essa Road to accommodate the future widening of Highway 400 to a 10-lane cross-section
  • Widening of Essa Road from four to six lanes between Bryne Drive/Ardagh Road intersection (west end) and the Fairview Road intersection (east end), with the addition of a Multi-Use Pathway on the north side of Essa Road
  • Reconstruction of the Highway 400/Essa Road Interchange, including the addition of a dedicated ramp from eastbound Essa Road to southbound Highway 400 and a new bridge to allow the ramp to cross the commercial access road in the southwest quadrant of the interchange
  • Replacement of traffic signals at the new ramp terminals
  • Storm sewer replacement, culvert extension and stormwater management measures
  • Median tall wall concrete barrier improvements, pavement rehabilitation, and safety upgrades

Construction staging has been developed to minimize traffic disruptions. Short-duration lane and ramp closures are required and detours will be provided. Temporary carpool lot closures are required, but one will remain open at any given time. 

Active Transportation

Essa Road is not on the Provincial Cycling Network Plan as determined by the City of Barrie.

The City of Barrie’s proposed active transportation network, as outlined in the City’s Transportation Master Plan, contains a system of routes and facilities that provides options to encourage residents and visitors to use active transportation for a range of trip types and purposes.

A Multi-Use Pathway will be constructed on the north side of Essa Road to facilitate future active transportation. A pedestrian sidewalk will be reinstated on the south side of Essa Road. 

Additional information on active transportation within the City of Barrie can be found in the City’s Transportation Master Plan.