The Ontario government is now accepting proposal to widen Highway 17 between Renfrew and Arnprior. According to a news release from the government, the province has issued a Request for Proposals to design the expansion, which would transform a stretch of the highway from two to four lanes. “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,” the province wrote. Highway 417, which is four lanes, currently transitions into the two-lane Highway 17 west of Arnprior. The stretch of highway between the two towns has seen an increase in traffic volume and has been the site of many collisions. The provincial government first announced the planned expansion of the route in 2019, saying work would be competed in phases within ten years time. The first phase of the expansion — a new bridge and interchange at Highway 17 and Calabogie Road — was completed in 2023. The next phase will involve the twinning of 22.5 kilometres of road on Highway 17, from Scheel Drive near Arnprior to three Kilometres west of Bruce Street near the Town of Renfrew. “This stretch of highway is a critical artery in the Ottawa Valley, connecting communities, supporting our economy and carrying families safely home each night,” Billy Denault, MPP for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, said in a statement. “This milestone is an important step forward for Renfrew County, and our government is getting it done.”
