If you are traveling across the GTA today, expect delays due to ongoing rehabilitation projects and the cleanup from New Year’s Eve festivities.
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These long-term projects remain active today. Expect slower speeds and narrowed lanes:
- The Gardiner Expressway (Park Lawn to Grand Ave):
- Westbound: Reduced to three lanes (until May 2026).
- Eastbound: Lanes are narrowed; use caution through the work zone.
- Gardiner Expressway (Bridge Work):
- Ongoing repairs at Kipling and Islington may result in single-lane reductions.
- William R. Allen Road:
- Traffic is restricted to two lanes in both directions near Wilson Avenue for bridge rehabilitation.
2. Holiday Event Re-Openings
Most New Year’s Eve road closures (Queens Quay, Bay St, and York St) are scheduled to reopen by 1:00 a.m. on January 1. However, city crews may still be on-site for cleanup in the Waterfront and Entertainment districts during the morning hours.
3. Downtown Surface Street Restrictions
- University Avenue: Reduced to a single southbound lane from College St to Queen St W.
- Bathurst St & Lake Shore Blvd: Significant delays due to watermain work; southbound Bathurst is closed south of Housey St.
4. Toll & Transit Updates
- 407 ETR: New, higher toll rates take effect today.
- TTC: Operating on a Sunday/Holiday schedule. While transit was free overnight, standard fares apply as of 7:00 a.m. today.
Driver’s Note: With New Year’s Day often bringing unpredictable winter weather, check Ontario 511 for real-time camera feeds and plow locations before you leave.
