Heading to Niagara? Lane closures could create traffic delays for Ontario drivers

Drivers from Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington and across the GTA heading toward Niagara this weekend should plan ahead as construction on the Burlington Skyway is expected to slow summer getaway traffic.

A partial closure of the QEW Niagara-bound Burlington Bay Skyway is scheduled from Friday, July 24 at 10 p.m. until Monday, July 27 at 5 a.m., impacting one of the busiest routes for travellers heading to the Niagara region during the summer months.

The timing could create headaches for motorists hoping to take advantage of the warm summer weather and head toward popular Niagara destinations, including Niagara Falls, wineries, restaurants, hiking trails and other attractions.

With many families and tourists expected to make the trip from the Greater Toronto Area during the summer holiday season, transportation officials are warning drivers to expect reduced capacity and possible delays.

During the closure:

• One middle lane (lane 3 of 4) on the Niagara-bound Skyway Bridge will be closed for the entire weekend

• Two lanes of through traffic will remain open on the QEW

• One lane to the Burlington Skyway will remain accessible through the Eastport Drive collector ramp

• Lane widths will be reduced through the work zone and drivers will see “Narrow Lane” signage

Additional ramp restrictions will also be in place.

The Eastport Drive/Collector ramp to the Skyway Bridge will close:

• Friday night into Saturday morning from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.

• Sunday night into Monday morning from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.

The closures are needed to allow crews to complete temporary barrier relocation work.

All ramps at the Northshore Boulevard interchange will remain open, and Eastport Drive will remain available as an alternate route for drivers looking to re-enter the QEW Niagara-bound.

Officials are reminding motorists that lane closures are weather dependent and could change.

For those looking to avoid the potential congestion altogether, GO Transit is recommending travellers consider taking the train to Niagara rather than driving.

GO service can provide an alternative for visitors heading toward the region while construction work continues on the QEW. Travellers are encouraged to check schedules and service updates before leaving.

The Burlington Skyway is a key connection between the Greater Toronto Area and Niagara, carrying thousands of vehicles each day between Hamilton, Burlington and destinations farther south.