Why are we modernizing the service centres?
Most of Ontario’s highway service centres were built in the 1960s and are outdated and need to be replaced. The lease agreements for the 20 of the 23 service centres began to expire in 2007. In the past, three oil companies owned, operated and provided services at these locations. Many of the leases have already expired and the remaining leases will expire within the next two years. Once the leases expire and prior to redevelopment of the service centre sites, cleanup activities must take place. This requires full closure of the sites for six to nine months (dependent on site layout, weather and field conditions). When the cleanup is completed, construction of the redeveloped sites commences. The new highway service centres will feature eco- and family-friendly facilities, offering quick service dining, coffee, convenience retail, enhanced truck facilities, tourism information, and fully accessible washrooms. The redeveloped service centres will also help keep drivers safe by providing
