Ontario Taking Next Steps to Widen Highway 17 Between Renfrew and Arnprior

Province keeping workers on the job and supporting the safe movement of people and goods in Eastern Ontario

RENFREW COUNTY — The Ontario government issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to design the expansion of Highway 17 from two to four lanes between the Town of Renfrew and Arnprior. Highway 17 is a critical link in the Trans-Canada highway system and a vital trade corridor, connecting communities across Eastern Ontario and supporting the movement of people and goods throughout the region.

“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.”

The province is twinning 22.5 kilometres of Highway 17 running from Scheel Drive near Arnprior to three kilometres west of Bruce Street near the Town of Renfrew. The first stage of the expansion project was completed in November 2023, when the province finished construction of a new bridge and interchange at Highway 17 and Calabogie Road.

“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.”

As Ontario remains focused on dismantling interprovincial trade barriers that cost Canada’s economy $200 billion annually, widening Highway 17 remains a key component of the province’s plan to protect Ontario by building a stronger, more resilient and self-reliant economy while expanding cross-country trade routes.

Quick Facts

·                     Ontario is investing $30 billion to build, repair and expand highways, roads and bridges across the province.

• In addition to the Calabogie Road interchange, three new interchanges will be built as part of Highway 17 expansion projects in Renfrew County.

  
  

Quotes

"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."

- Walid Abou-Hamde

CEO, ORBA

"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."

- Nadia Todorova

Executive Director, Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO)

"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."

- Warden Jennifer Murphy

County of Renfrew

"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."

- Daina Proctor

Mayor of Horton

"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."

- Tom Sidney

Mayor of Renfrew

"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."

- Lori Hoddinott

Mayor of McNab/Braeside