The Class Environmental Assessment Process



This study will update engineering and environmental work completed in the initial preliminary design study in 2003, including the identification of alternatives to replace the Highway 400 North Canal Bridges.

The project was initiated under the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for Provincial Transportation Facilities (2000) which provides a decision-making process to make sure that all relevant engineering and environmental factors are considered in the planning and design of transportation facilities. It is a "Group B" Class Environmental Assessment (EA), which includes major improvements to existing facilities.

As part of this study, a Design and Construction Report (DCR) has been prepared and documents the following:

  • the major features of the proposed work
  • updated existing conditions in the study area
  • a full description of the project’s consultation program
  • identification of all project approvals, licenses, and permits that have been, or must be obtained
  • environmental impacts and mitigation
  • considerations for construction staging and traffic management

The DCR is available for a 30-day public comment period from December 19, 2024 to January 21, 2025 at the following link: Design and Construction Report (GWP 2005-11-00) (45.9 MB).

Upon completion of the DCR comment period, the project will be considered to have met the requirements of the Class EA and will proceed to construction. Construction is anticipated to commence in Spring 2025, subject to funding and approvals. Interested persons may provide written comments to the project team by January 21, 2025. All comments and concerns should be sent directly to the project team.

For more details, visit MTO Class EA and Ontario EA Act.

Class EA Diagram

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of this study?


The purpose of the study is to identify a recommended plan for the complete replacement of the northbound and southbound Highway 400 Bridges over the North Canal of the Holland Marsh, and Canal Road. The proposed improvements will take into consideration the future 10-laning of Highway 400 with high-occupancy (HOV) lanes and the realignment of the North Canal.

What type of work is planned as part of this study?


Factor-specific environmental specialist work will include: fish and fish habitat, terrestrial resources including species-at-risk, groundwater, land use, landscape, contaminated property and waste management (including an Excess Materials Management Plan), archaeology, and drainage / surface water. In general, this work is required to update existing conditions, confirm impacts associated with the updated improvements, and to identify changes to statutory requirements since the original study.

Who are stakeholders?


Stakeholders are broadly defined as any individual or group that is affected by, or is interested in the project. MTO is committed to an extensive consultation program that actively engages and involves members of the public, non-government organizations (NGOs), municipalities, emergency service providers, Indigenous communities, external agencies, business, and industry.