The City of Ottawa has announced that the eastbound onramp to Highway 417 at Pinecrest Road will be closed for a period of 11.5 weeks, starting Saturday, May 9, 2026. This closure is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing traffic flow and safety in the area.
Details of the Closure
According to city officials, the onramp closure will begin at 6 a.m. on May 9 and is expected to last until late July 2026. During this time, drivers heading eastbound on Highway 417 will need to use alternative entry points. The city has advised motorists to plan their routes in advance to avoid delays.
Alternative Routes
Commuters are encouraged to use the onramps at Maitland Avenue or Carling Avenue as detours. Local traffic will still have access to Pinecrest Road, but the onramp itself will be completely blocked. The city has promised to post clear signage to guide drivers through the detour routes.
Impact on Traffic
Traffic analysts anticipate that the closure could lead to increased congestion on nearby streets, particularly during peak hours. The city has coordinated with traffic management teams to adjust signal timings and deploy additional traffic control personnel where necessary. Residents and commuters are advised to allow extra travel time or consider using public transit.
Construction Work
The closure is necessary to facilitate road resurfacing and the installation of new drainage systems. The project is part of a broader initiative to upgrade aging infrastructure along the Highway 417 corridor. The city has assured that every effort will be made to complete the work on schedule, weather permitting.
Motorists are reminded to obey all construction zone signs and speed limits for the safety of workers and other road users. Updates on the closure will be available on the City of Ottawa's website and social media channels.
