Province targets critical infrastructure upgrade in Prince Edward County
PICTON, Ont. — The Ontario government has announced a major infrastructure investment to rehabilitate County Road 49 in Prince Edward County, a move aimed at improving road safety, supporting regional economic growth, and sustaining employment across southeastern Ontario.
The project will cover 18.4 kilometres between Picton and the Bay of Quinte Skyway Bridge, addressing a corridor long criticized for its deteriorating condition. The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) previously ranked County Road 49 as the third-worst road in Ontario, underscoring the urgency of repairs.
The rehabilitation work will include repaving the roadway, installing new culverts, and upgrading guiderails. Provincial officials say the improvements are designed to enhance the safe movement of both people and goods while supporting thousands of jobs tied to construction and related industries.
“Our government is protecting Ontario by making historic investments in highway infrastructure to improve road safety and strengthen our economy,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Rehabilitating County Road 49 will improve a key gateway into Prince Edward County, support good-paying jobs during construction and make it easier for visitors to access one of Ontario’s top tourism destinations.”
Economic and tourism benefits tied to infrastructure renewal
County Road 49 serves as a vital transportation link into Prince Edward County, a region known for its wineries, restaurants, theatres, and tourism-driven economy. Provincial officials say upgrading the roadway will improve accessibility for visitors while strengthening connections for local residents.
The route is also critical for daily commuting, linking residents to employment, health care, housing, and essential services. Improved road conditions are expected to reduce travel disruptions and enhance reliability for commercial and passenger traffic.
“Improving County Road 49 is an important step in supporting the growing number of people who travel to and through Prince Edward County each year,” said Tyler Allsop, MPP for Quinte. “Our government’s investment in this rehabilitation project reflects our ongoing commitment to maintain strong, dependable roads across the region.”
The project aligns with Ontario’s broader $30-billion infrastructure plan focused on building, repairing, and expanding highways, roads, and bridges. The province says these investments are intended to reduce congestion, shorten travel times, and drive long-term economic growth.
Municipal and industry support highlights long-term impact
The rehabilitation project is being supported by multiple levels of government. The Municipality of Prince Edward County is contributing $7.8 million from its capital budget, reflecting a shared commitment to improving local infrastructure.
Mayor Steve Ferguson emphasized the importance of the project for the community’s future development.
“With the outstanding support of the provincial government, we are finally able to undertake this long overdue once-in-a-generation infrastructure project. County Road 49 is a vital lifeline in our community, key for our long-term economic growth and well-being. On behalf of County Council, residents, businesses, and visitors to Prince Edward County, I thank the Government of Ontario for helping us move forward.”
Industry stakeholders also welcomed the announcement, noting the broader implications for transportation efficiency and economic resilience.
“RCCAO commends the Ontario government for rehabilitating County Road 49 and advancing the state of good repair of this critical regional transportation infrastructure. As the technical partner for CAA’s annual Worst Roads Campaign, RCCAO has a strong understanding of the conditions facing roads like County Road 49 and the impacts they have on residents and businesses. The challenges associated with deteriorating infrastructure are real and well understood, and the rehabilitation of County Road 49 is both welcome and necessary.”
- Nadia Todorova
Executive Director, Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario
“Rehabilitating County Road 49 is an important investment in critical core infrastructure in Prince Edward County. Our industry appreciates the province’s responsiveness in addressing an issue that residents and road users have consistently raised as a priority. Project investments like this help improve road safety, support local jobs, and ensure the province’s transportation network continues to move people and goods efficiently. It’s a great investment that will have a positive long-term impact for the region.”
- Patrick McManus
Executive Director, Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association
Broader infrastructure strategy in southeastern Ontario
The County Road 49 rehabilitation builds on recent infrastructure investments in the region. In 2024, the province completed major upgrades to the Bay of Quinte Skyway Bridge, a key connection between Highway 401 and Prince Edward County.
Additionally, Ontario provided $2 million last year to support the reconstruction of Main Street in Prince Edward County, further enhancing local transportation networks.
Provincial officials also highlighted plans for a new roundabout at Highway 62 and County Road 1, part of ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure and improve traffic flow across the region.
Long-term outlook
As Ontario continues to prioritize infrastructure renewal, projects like the County Road 49 rehabilitation are expected to play a central role in supporting regional economies and improving quality of life for residents.
With construction set to address long-standing concerns about road conditions, the investment signals a broader commitment to maintaining reliable transportation networks that underpin both local communities and provincial economic activity.