McGuinty Government Improves Driver Safety While Boosting the Local Economy

Toronto -- Ontario has confirmed that Host Kilmer Service Centres (HKSC) will be the new service provider for Ontario's service centres. The 20 redeveloped service centres will feature modernized rest areas, increased accessibility and improved food services, while creating approximately 2,000 to 2,500 service centre jobs. 

Construction will occur over a few phases; the first phase is underway and seven service centres are scheduled to open with fuel, washrooms, parking and a convenience store, in July 2010.  These seven service centres will be fully operational in September 2010 when travellers will have access to Canadian Tire fuel stations with adjacent convenience stores, and a variety of popular food operators such as Tim Hortons, A&W, and Burger King. The redeveloped service centres will also feature new staffed tourism centres at Tilbury South and Bainsville-the two centres that are nearest to the Windsor-Detroit and the Quebec borders, which will provide motorists with travel information about attractions throughout Ontario.

Over the next three years, 20 of the 23 service centres will be redeveloped with approximately 350 construction jobs being created at each site. The new service centres will be built according to LEED Silver (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification standards as part of the government's commitment to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. LEED standard is a green building rating system that evaluates healthy indoor environments, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and efficient use of energy, water and other resources. 

QUOTES

“By redeveloping the highway service centres, the government is creating and maintaining local jobs, contributing to road safety and economic prosperity, and supporting the development of sustainable facilities across Ontario.”  
- Brad Duguid, Minister Energy and Infrastructure   

“I'm very excited that the first phase of Ontario's new service centres will open this summer. Residents and tourists will experience modern, energy efficient and family-friendly centres.  These service stations are an important step forward in providing enhanced options for Ontarians and visitors.” 
- Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Transportation  

QUICK FACTS

  • Infrastructure Ontario managed the competitive procurement of this project. Infrastructure Ontario is a Crown corporation dedicated to managing some of the province's larger and more complex infrastructure renewal projects. 
  • During construction, interim services (including parking, portable washrooms, public telephones, water and limited food service) will be offered at select service centre locations. 

LEARN MORE 

Get up-to-date information about service centre closures and temporary services at http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/service-centres/questions-and-answers.shtml

Get on the road and visit great Ontario travel destinations. 

Bob Nichols
Ministry of Transportation
416-327-1158 

Paulette den Elzen
Infrastructure Ontario
416-327-5764