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Several sections of the 401 are currently undergoing Planning, Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment (EA) Studies to evaluate the highway's future footprint for the next 75 years, including an eventual eight lanes.
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As part of the planning process, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) and the consulting team will be holding two Public Information Centres (PIC) per study to give community members the opportunity to learn about the project and share feedback on proposed alternatives.
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Several studies are of concern as these areas of the 401 bisect critical ecological corridors within the Frontenac Arch. Public consultations provide concerned citizens the opportunity to get involved and ensure that the planning team considers the ecological health of the region in their decision making processes.
Below are the current planning studies that we encourage you to get involved in. The first round of PICs are now closed, with the second round opening between Spring and Fall of 2026. Please stay tuned to see how you can get involved during this time!
Gananoque to Mallorytown
​At the centre of the Frontenac Arch, this is a particularly critical area for wildlife movement and at-risk turtle and snake populations. Our research indicates that the construction of three wildlife overpasses would reconnect habitats and support safe passage for species such as fishers, red foxes, and black bears. Please visit this page for more information on our recommended solutions.
The second Public Information Centre is scheduled for Fall 2026.
Kingston to Gananoque
Within this corridor, Stevenstown Creek, Joyceville Creek, and Grass Creek are vital hydrological and ecological linkages that support both terrestrial and aquatic species. Previous studies note that several species at risk may be present in or near the study area, including Black Tern, Northern Map Turtle, Least Bittern and Gray Ratsnake, species who rely on these habitats and the connectivity that the culverts provide. The rehabilitation of these culverts present key opportunities to enhance connectivity and improve safe passage for wildlife as part of the highway upgrades.
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The second Public Information Centre is scheduled for Fall 2026.
Mallorytown to Brockville
​This section of the 401 bisects Jones Creek, a priority wildlife corridor and one of the most intact north-south habitat pathways across the Frontenac Arch. Conversely, this area experiences one of the highest rates of road mortality.​ Inclusion of an underpass would greatly enhance connectivity and provide safe passage for larger wildlife species.
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The second Public Information Centre is scheduled for Spring 2026.
