After years of planning and construction, a new road connection under Highway 402 in Sarnia is expected to be completed "later this year."
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) confirmed the timeline for the Rapids Parkway extension in a brief update emailed to Sarnia News Today.
"The MTO’s contractor is currently making improvements to the former CNR Overhead Bridge which is over the Rapids Parkway on Hwy. 402 and the Rapids Parkway below," Senior Media Relations Advisor Julia Caslin wrote. "Bridge work includes fixing the structure, upgrading concrete barriers, noise walls, and the pavement. For the Rapids Parkway, projects include new retaining walls and lighting, plus drainage improvements to culverts, storm sewers and catch basins. The project is expected to be complete later this year."
Earlier this month, Sarnia council approved changes to Sarnia Transit routes to accommodate the new thoroughfare once it opens.
"The completion and upcoming opening in the fall of the Rapids Parkway extension presents a timely opportunity to enhance operational efficiency and connectivity for Route 5," read a report to city council.
Route 5 will see the Rosedale bus utilize the Rapids Parkway to reach key destinations including; the Clearwater bus terminal, Lambton College, Lambton Mall, Walmart, and other shopping plazas.
The city completed construction of a new roundabout, near The Home Depot, as part of the extension in late 2023.
A portion of Exmouth Street was also reconstructed that year to lower the intersection and install new traffic lights.