Putting People’s Safety First on our Highways

MISSISSAUGA – On the first day of Police Week, Ontario’s Government is putting people’s safety first with the construction of a new Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Highway Safety Division detachment in Mississauga. The $20-million investment will ensure Ontarians can continue to receive the modern, cost-efficient and first-class road and highway safety services they deserve.

Solicitor General Sylvia Jones and Minister of Infrastructure Monte McNaughton, were at the building site today to take part in the official groundbreaking.

“Our government is putting people first with every decision we make and every dollar we spend to protect what matters most and fund critical projects that are vital to public safety, such as the new Highway Safety Division detachment in Mississauga,” said Jones. “Most people underestimate the severity of the financial situation in Ontario. But our government will never waiver in our commitment to ensure people are safe on our highways and in their communities.”

The new Mississauga Detachment is part of the OPP Modernization – Phase 2 project, a provincewide investment of $182 million announced last year intended to replace a total of nine aging facilities that are at the end of their lifespan and no longer meet the requirements of modern police operations.

The new Mississauga Detachment will be responsible for policing the Provincial/400 series highways.

“Traffic safety is a core function of the OPP and our Highway Safety Division members who work out of the Mississauga Detachment patrol some of the busiest highways in North America. I am pleased that a modern new facility will allow them to deliver efficient, professional traffic safety services better than ever,” said Thomas Carrique, Commissioner, Ontario Provincial Police.

The OPP Modernization – Phase 2 project is a central part of the government’s infrastructure investments for the people.

“Today’s OPP modernization announcement means better road and highway safety for people across the province,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our government’s commitment of $182 million for nine OPP detachments across Ontario will provide officers with modernized tools and technology to better protect our families and loved ones. By making smart infrastructure investments, we are protecting what matters most – the people of Ontario.”

QUICK FACTS

• The new detachment will be located at 2735 Argentia Rd. in Mississauga. The project is expected to be near completion by late 2020.
• The new detachment is approximately 17,000 square feet and will provide space and infrastructure that support changing technology requirements, spacious and secure evidence vaults, three holding cells as well as CCTV and other advanced security features. The detachment will also include a Collision Reporting Centre.
• The building will be fully accessible and designed to meet the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver Standard – the standard that recognizes buildings with reduced environmental impacts.
• The OPP Modernization – Phase 2 project is being delivered through Infrastructure Ontario’s Public-Private Partnership (P3) model. The P3 model guarantees taxpayers a fixed price for the nine detachments.