A Highway 401 Bowmanville closure will shut down both directions of the highway overnight in August while crews complete critical work on the Bennett Road bridge.
The full closure is scheduled between Liberty Street in Bowmanville and Highway 115 near Newcastle from 11 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, until 7 a.m. on Sunday, August 9, 2026.
The Municipality of Clarington says the closure is required to support the demolition and reconstruction of the Bennett Road bridge as part of the Ministry of Transportation’s Highway 401 Interchange Improvement Project.
Drivers travelling through Clarington should plan an alternate route and allow additional time.
Highway 401 Bowmanville Closure Details
All eastbound and westbound Highway 401 lanes will be closed between Liberty Street and Highway 115 during the overnight construction period.
Posted detour routes will direct drivers around the work zone. Emergency vehicle access will remain available throughout the closure.
The shutdown could create delays on surrounding roads in Bowmanville and Newcastle, particularly near Liberty Street, Highway 2 and Highway 115.
Drivers should follow construction signs and avoid entering closed sections of the highway.
Bennett Road Closing for Entire Weekend
Bennett Road will also be closed between Baseline Road and Lake Road for a longer period.
That closure is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. on Friday, August 7, and continue until 6 a.m. on Monday, August 10.
The extended Bennett Road closure will allow crews to complete demolition, reconstruction and related bridge activities while keeping vehicles away from the construction area.
Local residents and businesses should expect temporary changes to normal travel routes throughout the weekend.
Drivers Advised to Plan Ahead
The Highway 401 Bowmanville closure is scheduled overnight to reduce its impact on daytime traffic, but significant delays could still occur before and after the shutdown.
Drivers travelling between Bowmanville, Newcastle and communities farther east should consider leaving earlier, delaying non-essential trips or using the posted detour routes.
Commercial drivers should also account for the closure when planning delivery and transportation schedules.
Roadwork dates and times may change because of weather, construction progress or other operational factors.
Motorists should check Ontario 511 and the Municipality of Clarington’s road-closure notices before travelling for the latest information.
