Discussions are actively underway regarding a potential shift in ownership for a major London, Ontario roadway. The provincial government is considering a proposal to upload ownership and jurisdiction of Highbury Avenue from the municipal level.
The Push for Provincial Control and Safety
The core argument driving this discussion is safety. Proponents of the upload, including local officials and transportation advocates, contend that provincial management is the key to transformative upgrades. A central proposal is the expansion of Highbury Avenue into a controlled-access, four-lane highway.
Advocates firmly believe that "a four-lane highway would be absolutely safer" than the current mixed-use arterial road. They argue that provincial standards and funding would allow for the separation of high-speed through traffic from local access, reducing conflict points and severe collisions.
Current Status and Local Implications
As of January 17, 2026, these talks are in a preliminary stage. The initiative, reported by CTV London's Brent Lale, represents a significant potential change in how the critical north-south corridor is managed and financed.
If the upload proceeds, it would mean the Province of Ontario assumes responsibility for the road's long-term maintenance, capital improvements, and policing. This could free up significant municipal resources for the City of London while potentially accelerating major construction projects that have been discussed for years.
Broader Context and Next Steps
The debate touches on a classic tension in Canadian infrastructure: which level of government is best positioned to manage and fund major transportation arteries that serve both local and regional purposes. Highbury Avenue functions as a key route for London commuters but also connects to provincial Highway 401, making it a vital link in Southwestern Ontario's network.
No timeline for a decision has been announced. The discussions will likely involve detailed analyses of costs, jurisdictional agreements, and long-term planning for the corridor's development. The outcome will be closely watched by municipalities across Ontario that manage similar high-traffic roads eligible for provincial upload.
