If you’re planning on driving on any provincial highways in or around the Greater Toronto Area over the next few days, you’d better be prepared for delays as a convoy rolls through the area.
Provincial police are warning motorists to be aware of potential traffic disruptions expected throughout the GTA, including the QEW, Highways 400, 427, 403 and 401 beginning Thursday (Jan. 27) and expected to continue until Saturday (Jan. 29).
“The OPP is aware of potential protests that will be coming through the GTA. … We are expecting vehicles, large and small, converging into the GTA from different areas across the province,” Sgt. Kerry Schmidt said in a video posted to the OPP Highway Safety Division’s Twitter account on Wednesday.
“We understand that these convoys may impact traffic flow (and) there could be potential disruptions with that," he added. "If you are a motorist in that area, plan ahead, expect delays starting on Thursday. Avoid areas if you are aware of the delays that are coming through.”
Schmidt said protesters have the right to peacefully protest, but noted the OPP’s provincial liaison teams are working with protest organizers to ensure public and traffic safety for everybody.
“We do expect drivers to maintain a sense of movement and keep the highways flowing for emergency vehicles and for other users of the highway,” he said, noting officers will be monitoring activities and will be working to keep the highways safe as the protests arrive and make their way across the province.
