The provincial government is removing tolls on Highways 412 and 418 in Durham Region as of April 5.

According to a media release, removing tolls will provide more travel options for local residents, relieve gridlock on local roads across Durham Region, and help improve economic competitiveness for local businesses.

“We have heard the people of Durham loud and clear and we agree that the tolls imposed on Highways 412 and 418 by the previous government are wrong and unfair,” said Premier Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario.

“That’s why we are removing the tolls on these highways so that people and businesses have more travel options and hard-earned money in their pockets.”

“The previous government unfairly targeted drivers and businesses in Durham Region by imposing tolls on Highway 412 and 418, leaving them underutilized while local streets became increasingly gridlocked,” added Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation.

“As we move forward with new highways, our government has been clear that we will not repeat the mistakes of the past and impose these types of cost burdens on Ontarians.”

The 412 and 418 are currently the only tolled north-south highways in Ontario.

“When the previous government imposed these unjust road tolls, they placed a financial burden on drivers and families in Durham Region,” added Pickering-Uxbridge MPP Peter Bethlenfalvy.

“By delivering on our commitment to remove these tolls, our government is fighting gridlock while supporting families.”

“I have long advocated for the removal of tolls from Highway 412 and 418, and today we are taking action to resolve this unfair decision made by the previous government,” said Whitby MPP Lorne Coe.

“The removal of tolls shows this government’s steadfast commitment to helping Durham Region continue to grow and thrive.”