RENFREW COUNTY, Ont. — The Ontario government has taken the next step toward widening a key section of Highway 17 in Eastern Ontario, issuing a request for proposals to design an expansion that is expected to bolster trade, improve safety and support jobs in the region.
The Ministry of Transportation announced Feb. 27 that it is seeking bids to design the twinning of Highway 17 from two lanes to four lanes between the Town of Renfrew and Arnprior, a 22.5-kilometre stretch that forms part of the Trans-Canada Highway network.
The project comes as Ontario positions infrastructure investment as a strategy to strengthen its economy amid global trade tensions and domestic economic pressures.
“As President Trump’s tariffs continue to target families and businesses, it has never been more important to invest in the transportation infrastructure that will strengthen our province for years to come,” said Ric Bresee, parliamentary assistant to the minister of transportation. “Expanding Highway 17 will secure a vital trade corridor, fight gridlock and support good-paying jobs during construction.”
Highway 17 serves as a major transportation corridor linking communities across Eastern Ontario and connecting the region to national supply chains. Provincial officials say widening the route will help ease congestion, improve reliability for commercial transportation and support long-term economic growth.
The expansion project involves twinning the highway from Scheel Drive near Arnprior to a point three kilometres west of Bruce Street in Renfrew. The first phase was completed in November 2023 with the construction of a new bridge and interchange at Calabogie Road, which improved traffic flow and access in the area.
Local officials say the broader project will enhance both economic opportunities and public safety.
“This stretch of highway is a critical artery in the Ottawa Valley, connecting communities, supporting our economy and carrying families safely home each night,” said Billy Denault, MPP for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. “This milestone is an important step forward for Renfrew County, and our government is getting it done.”
The province said the Highway 17 project forms part of its broader $30-billion plan to build, repair and expand highways, roads and bridges across Ontario. In addition to the Calabogie Road interchange, three new interchanges are planned as part of the expansion in Renfrew County.
Industry groups welcomed the move, saying infrastructure spending can help offset economic uncertainty while supporting domestic industries.
“Investments in transportation infrastructure are one of the most effective ways to strengthen Ontario’s economy during times of global trade uncertainty. Projects like the expansion of Highway 17 support local jobs and rely largely on domestic supply chains, ensuring infrastructure dollars deliver strong economic benefits. Highways 11 and 17 are vital, nation-building trade corridors for northern Ontario, and modernizing them will support industry, improve safety and keep people working across the region,” said Walid Abou-Hamde, CEO of the Ontario Road Builders’ Association.
Similarly, the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario said the project represents a significant step in strengthening the province’s infrastructure network.
“RCCAO is delighted with the progress to expand Highway 17, a significant and meaningful milestone for Eastern Ontario and our province’s infrastructure network. As a critical link in the Trans-Canada Highway corridor, this investment will enhance safety, ease congestion and support the efficient movement of goods and people. We commend the Government of Ontario for continuing to prioritize investment in critical transportation infrastructure that creates jobs, drives economic growth and builds stronger, more resilient communities,” said Nadia Todorova, executive director of the alliance.
Municipal leaders across Renfrew County also expressed support, citing both safety improvements and economic potential.
“Today’s announcement is first and foremost about safety for the people who travel this corridor every day, but it is also a powerful investment in the future of the Ottawa Valley. Thank you for the province’s ongoing commitment towards strengthening our communities, supporting economic growth, and ensuring this region remains connected, competitive, and positioned to thrive,” said Renfrew County Warden Jennifer Murphy.
Horton Township Mayor Daina Proctor said the investment would improve connectivity and emergency access for residents.
“As Mayor of Horton Township, I truly welcome the province’s investment in twinning the Highway 417 corridor, and I thank MPP Billy Denault for his advocacy on this important file. This will make a real difference for our residents by improving safety, supporting emergency access, and strengthening the everyday connectivity our community relies on,” Proctor said.
Renfrew Mayor Tom Sidney said the project would support long-term growth in the town.
“This announcement is a huge step forward for the Town of Renfrew, and shows the Province of Ontario’s dedication to improving safety, strengthening connections to jobs and services, and opening the door to new economic opportunities for Renfrew residents. A four-lane Highway 17 will help our rural community thrive for many years to come,” Sidney said.
McNab/Braeside Mayor Lori Hoddinott added that local governments are eager to see continued progress.
“Highway 17 is a critical corridor for our communities and for the broader Trans-Canada network. We appreciate today’s commitment from the Province to continue the twinning through Renfrew County and look forward to working together to keep this project moving forward and explore opportunities to advance timelines where possible,” Hoddinott said.
The Highway 17 expansion is part of Ontario’s broader effort to strengthen internal trade routes and improve transportation links, which the province says are essential to building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.
A timeline for construction has not yet been announced, pending completion of the design and procurement process.