The ongoing rehabilitation project on the Gardiner Expressway in Toronto has caused a significant increase in rush hour delays and emissions, according to a recent analysis by Geotab ITS.
The project, which involves reducing lanes on the expressway between Strachan Avenue and Dufferin Street, has resulted in a 250 per cent increase in morning rush hour travel times and a 230 per cent increase in afternoon rush hour commutes. Data from over 10,000 commercial vehicles was used for the study, revealing that drivers are spending 80 per cent more time driving on the Gardiner.
The average travel time from the Humber River to Strachan Avenue has increased from eight minutes to 20 minutes, while the five km stretch between Jarvis and Dufferin streets now takes 25 minutes instead of 11 minutes. Other Toronto roadways have also experienced increased commercial traffic as drivers seek alternative routes.
The analysis found that the three roads most impacted by commercial traffic congestion are Harbour Street, Lake Shore Boulevard, and Cherry Street, with average travel time increases ranging from 27 to 72 per cent.
Furthermore, the study revealed that the amount of traffic traveling at speeds less than 25 km/h has doubled, leading to a 23 per cent increase in emissions. This increase is equivalent to approximately 1,200 kg of CO2 daily, which is comparable to the carbon footprint of a premium roundtrip flight from Toronto to Vancouver.
Mayor Olivia Chow stated that the closures on the Gardiner Expressway will be in place for the next three years, with a temporary lift in 2026 for the FIFA World Cup. The city is implementing measures to mitigate disruptions caused by the project, including a pilot project to extend the opening of the Jameson Avenue on-ramp and exploring ways to ease gridlock at key intersections.
City staff are also conducting noise tests on demolition work and working on a report to expedite the Gardiner project. The goal is to address the challenges posed by the rehabilitation project and minimize its impact on commuters and the environment.