Durham Region, Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa – Drivers planning to use the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) through southern Ontario should be aware of significant traffic disruptions next week, particularly affecting commuters traveling to and from the Niagara area into the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Starting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, repairs on the Burlington Skyway bridge will cause multiple lane closures, impacting the QEW Niagara-bound lanes, with disruptions lasting through Saturday, April 11, 2026.
The Burlington Skyway, a vital bridge that spans Hamilton Harbour, is a major route for those traveling from Niagara to the GTA, making the upcoming lane closures an inconvenience for many, especially those from Durham Region.
Lane Closures on the QEW: What You Need to Know
- Tuesday, April 7 → Wednesday, April 8:
Two of the four left lanes of the QEW will be closed from 9 p.m. on April 7 to 6 a.m. on April 8. Additionally, there will be a full closure of all lanes on the Skyway from 10 p.m. on April 7 to 6 a.m. on April 8. Commuters will need to take an alternate route via Eastport Drive to re-enter the QEW Niagara-bound. The ramp from Eastport Drive/collector lanes to the bridge will be closed for the entire period. - Wednesday, April 8 → Thursday, April 9:
The closure of two left lanes will continue from 9 p.m. on April 8 to 6 a.m. on April 9. The full closure from the previous night will not be in effect during this period, but delays are still anticipated due to the ongoing repairs. - Thursday, April 9 → Friday, April 10:
Starting 11 p.m. on April 9, the two right lanes of the QEW will be closed for repair work, lasting until 6 a.m. on April 10. This closure will affect the Niagara-bound lanes, and drivers should expect delays, especially those trying to get through the Skyway Bridge area. - Friday, April 10 → Saturday, April 11:
The final night of closures will again affect the right lanes from 11 p.m. on April 10 to 6 a.m. on April 11. Expect significant delays during the weekend as the repairs conclude.
Traffic Impact on Durham Region Commuters
Although the Skyway Bridge is located outside Durham Region, the QEW serves as an essential route for commuters traveling from Pickering, Ajax, and Oshawa into Toronto or towards Niagara. The Burlington Skyway closures will likely cause additional traffic on surrounding routes, such as the 401 and 403, and may affect Durham Region residents who travel westward into Hamilton or beyond.
Drivers are advised to use alternate routes, such as Eastport Drive, which will remain open, to avoid getting caught in the long delays. Additionally, the Northshore Boulevard Interchange ramps will remain open, providing further options for detours.
Plan Ahead: Stay Informed and Avoid Traffic
Commuters should check the latest traffic updates before their travels, especially those heading to or from Durham Region. Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to track real-time closures and rerouted traffic. With several days of disruptions ahead, planning your trips ahead of time will help reduce the stress of dealing with heavy traffic.
