A significant new phase of the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit construction project officially got underway today, Monday, April 20, 2026, in the Town of Ajax. The Regional Municipality of Durham has hired Grascan Construction Ltd. to begin work on the second segment of the transit line, which spans Kingston Road (Regional Highway 2) from Rotherglen Road to approximately 300 metres west of Harwood Avenue. This $11 million section of the project is a critical link in the planned 36-kilometre rapid transit corridor that will eventually connect Oshawa to Scarborough Town Centre.
Construction for this specific segment is expected to continue through July 2027. During the initial phase of work, motorists should expect lane shifts and daytime lane restrictions during off-peak hours. However, a more significant impact on local traffic is scheduled for the fall of 2026. At that time, Kingston Road will be reduced to just one lane in each direction for longer durations to facilitate the installation of new median transit stop platforms. These central stations are a hallmark of the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit construction, designed to separate buses from general traffic and provide faster, more reliable service.
Despite the heavy machinery and roadwork, the Region has confirmed that all local businesses along the corridor will remain open and accessible throughout the duration of the project. Furthermore, existing bus routes, bus stops, and sidewalks will be maintained to minimize disruption for transit riders and pedestrians. Residents and business owners are encouraged to visit the official Durham Region website for specific tips on navigating the construction zone. The project is partially funded through the federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), underscoring its importance to regional transit expansion.
The goal of the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit construction is to provide frequent, five-minute service during peak hours by 2030, potentially saving commuters up to 20 minutes per trip along the Highway 2 corridor. Once complete, the system will feature dedicated red-asphalt bus lanes and priority signaling at intersections. This latest segment in Ajax follows the first phase of construction, which began last year between Harwood Avenue and Galea Drive. As work progresses, drivers are urged to exercise additional caution to ensure the safety of road crews, cyclists, and pedestrians in the active work zone.
As this second major section moves forward, similar expansions are being prepared for Pickering, with tenders being finalized for work between Steeple Hill and Merritton Road. For now, Ajax residents are being asked for their patience as the Region works to “come to grips” with the growing demand for modern transit infrastructure. With a projected completion date for this section set for next summer, the transformation of Kingston Road into a high-capacity transit hub is officially in full swing.
