Taking Next Steps to Widen Highway 17 Between Renfrew and Arnprior

Province keeping workers on the job and supporting the safe movement of people and goods in Eastern Ontario

The Ontario government issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to design the expansion of Highway 17 from two to four lanes between the Town of Renfrew and Arnprior. 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.

“As President Trump’s tariffs continue to target families and businesses, it has never been more important to invest in the transportation infrastructure that will strengthen our province for years to come,” said Ric Bresee, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Transportation. “Expanding Highway 17 will secure a vital trade corridor, fight gridlock and support good-paying jobs during construction.”

The province is twinning 22.5 kilometres of Highway 17 running from Scheel Drive near Arnprior to three kilometres west of Bruce Street near the Town of Renfrew. The first stage of the expansion project was completed in November 2023, when the province finished construction of a new bridge and interchange at Highway 17 and Calabogie Road.

“This stretch of highway is a critical artery in the Ottawa Valley, connecting communities, supporting our economy and carrying families safely home each night,” said Billy Denault, MPP for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. “This milestone is an important step forward for Renfrew County, and our government is getting it done.”

As Ontario remains focused on dismantling interprovincial trade barriers that cost Canada’s economy $200 billion annually, widening Highway 17 remains a key component of the province’s plan to protect Ontario by building a stronger, more resilient and self-reliant economy while expanding cross-country trade routes.

Quick Facts

• Ontario is investing $30 billion to build, repair and expand highways, roads and bridges across the province.
• In addition to the Calabogie Road interchange, three new interchanges will be built as part of Highway 17 expansion projects in Renfrew County.