Strong regional partnerships matter now more than ever.

Today, leaders from London, Middlesex County, Strathroy-Caradoc, St. Thomas and Southwold met at London City Hall to discuss the growing economic challenges facing our region, and reaffirm our shared commitment to working together on solutions.

Trade uncertainty continues to impact the Canadian economy, and these impacts are being felt acutely across Southwestern Ontario. Recent data from Statistics Canada shows that several Census Metropolitan Areas in our region are now among those with the highest unemployment rates in the country. These concerning numbers reinforce the importance of coordinated, immediate action to protect workers and families, support employers, and ensure we remain a top destination for growth and opportunity.

“Investment in institutions, such as Western University, are key to driving our regional economy in a positive direction. Western is one of our biggest employers, and they’re creating even more jobs through capital projects. When we sit and reflect on the numbers, we can’t lose sight of the potential and opportunity in front of us.”

– Warden Susan Clarke, Middlesex County

First, we want to acknowledge and appreciate the critical work undertaken by both the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to address tariff impacts and prepare for upcoming CUSMA negotiations. However, we must take immediate steps to support our communities.
In a challenging job market, infrastructure investment plays a vital role in sustaining local employment while building the foundation for long-term growth. As municipal leaders, we are committed to maintaining the flow of local infrastructure spending to support construction jobs and generate positive economic spin-offs across our communities. We stand steadfast in our commitment to moving forward on projects that are necessary to meet the needs of our growing communities, unhindered by global realities.

U.S. tariffs are driving up municipal construction costs, now exacerbated by rising gas prices. Municipalities cannot use existing federal and provincial infrastructure funding to cover these cost escalations; however, we are committed to keeping these in-flight projects on track, protecting local jobs.

“I greatly appreciate that we are taking time to coordinate our strategy and advocacy efforts. A collective approach to regional representation is key, not only to the future of Southwestern Ontario, but our ability to engage multiple levels of government. Steps like this are vital to addressing the concerns of our residents across the region.”

– Mayor Colin Grantham, Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc

Second, we recognize that the scale of today’s challenges requires a regional approach and collective advocacy. We are committing to closer collaboration to better understand the impacts of trade uncertainty across our region, and more strategic consideration of infrastructure, transportation, and economic development investments that have the potential to deliver shared benefits.

Our region continues to attract significant global investment - from PowerCo, to Andriani, to Vianode - because of our highly skilled workforce, exceptional quality of life, access to dual-source fresh water, reliable energy, and integrated transportation networks. We will continue working together to promote these advantages, attract new partners, support expansion, and ensure the world understands the strength of our regional economy.
This collaborative approach is already delivering results. Our recent partnership helped secure Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF) support to sustain and expand the Middlesex County Connect regional bus service - an important step in enabling residents to live in one community and work in another, strengthening our regional labour market.

“Infrastructure projects are not only important to meet the modern needs of growing communities, they keep people working. That said, it is difficult for a township to carry a debt load for necessary services without the combined voice of our regional partners. This sort of collaboration is meaningful and sends a message that we are not alone. I look forward to continued discussions on how we can protect jobs and deliver for families.”

– Mayor Grant Jones, Township of Southwold

Third, we jointly call on the provincial and federal governments to continue strengthening their partnership with municipalities by accelerating infrastructure funding programs so that projects can move forward as soon as possible. Getting shovels in the ground quickly is essential to supporting jobs and maintaining economic momentum.

We are already seeing the tangible benefits of these investments. In Central Elgin, Ontario’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems (HEWS) funding has enabled four construction crews - employing approximately 40 workers - to advance critical water infrastructure projects that will unlock new housing opportunities. In London, Federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Funding (DMAF) is allowing for infrastructure upgrades that will build the city’s resilience against natural disasters while currently employing 30-40 construction-related workers, in addition to 15-20 planning and design consultants over the last 3 years.

“We’ve had great success internationally attracting investment to our region. By working together, we can strengthen Southwestern Ontario’s economy and build our region’s resilience in the face of trade uncertainty. It will require strong advocacy and strategic thinking, but that path is easier when we walk it together.”

– Mayor Joe Preston, City of St. Thomas

In addition to advancing projects already underway, our municipalities have a strong pipeline of shovel-ready, trade-enabling infrastructure projects that could be accelerated to boost construction activity, stimulate Ontario’s economy, and create jobs in the near term.
We look forward to fostering this partnership with both the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada to advance strategic investments in our region and better align projects for greater impact. While unemployment rates present a real and immediate challenge, our region has also experienced a net gain of over 30,000 jobs in recent years. With coordinated planning and a collective voice, we can fully leverage the strategic assets that make our region competitive.

“Today’s discussion underscored the strength of a united regional approach. This is not the time to sit back and wait. Together we are taking deliberate steps to protect workers, support families, and attract the kinds of investments that strengthen our communities and keep them working. This collaboration will build meaningful change, helping us meet today’s challenges and position our region for opportunities ahead.”

– Mayor Josh Morgan, City of London

Together, we remain focused on supporting our workers, strengthening our economy, and building a resilient future for Southwestern Ontario.

Signed,

Mayor Josh Morgan, City of London
Warden Susan Clarke, Middlesex County
Mayor Colin Grantham, Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc
Mayor Joe Preston, City of St. Thomas
Mayor Grant Jones, Township of Southwold

Many of you will have seen the news regarding the concentrated spike in overdoses in London this week.

While officials investigate to find those responsible and confirm the nature of the substance, I want to recognize and thank our emergency services, social agencies and others who reacted swiftly to identify the threat to Londoners' health, disseminate information, and work to limit the impact of this terrible incident. Their efforts ensured those in need of urgent medical care and attention received it in a timely manner, saving dozens of lives.

As we continue to support those affected, I want to be clear that this incident demonstrates the devastating impacts of toxic drugs on our streets, and reinforces the importance of a coordinated approach across public services. These are risks faced every day by people living with substance use challenges and those who work with them. Real progress depends on expanding access to treatment and recovery. The Province has invested significantly with the creation of the HART Hub system, however more treatment and recovery beds are needed. Without enough places for people to heal, recover and rebuild their lives, the cycle will continue.

This incident also underscores why the ongoing work of emergency services to meet these challenges, such as London Police Service's Open Air Drug Strategy and Nurse-Police Response Teams, is so essential. They meet people where they're at, reduce the presence of toxic and unregulated substances on our streets, and provide on-the-spot care and medical support in moments of crisis. By connecting individuals directly to trained professionals and health supports, they stabilize people during dangerous episodes and alleviate pressure on emergency services, allowing us to reach more Londoners when needs arise. I cannot thank our front line outreach workers and emergency service professionals enough, not only for their work this week but every single day.

As we move forward, our focus remains clear: keeping Londoners safe, removing drugs from our streets, and ensuring that those who need help can access it quickly, without barriers.

– Mayor Josh Morgan

I was heartbroken to learn of the devastating and horrific shootings in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. Londoners' hearts are grieving today alongside the victims, families, friends and community who have lost loved ones and had their lives changed forever by this unimaginable tragedy.

On behalf of the City of London, we stand in solidarity, support and compassion with Tumbler Ridge. Flags will be flown at half-mast until sunset on January I7, 2026 in honour of those impacted.

– Mayor Josh Morgan

Today, Mayor Josh Morgan was joined by Councillor Peter Cuddy (Ward 3), Mark Santandrea, Executive Superintendent of Education for the London District Catholic School Board, and Kelly Ziegner, Chief Operating Officer of YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, to celebrate the official opening of a new child care centre at John Paul II Catholic Secondary School.

The new centre, located at 1300 Oxford Street East, opened in January 2026 and provides 47 licensed spaces for toddlers and preschoolers, helping respond to the growing demand for child care in the community.

YMCA Child Care Centre is located within a dedicated area of John Paul II Catholic Secondary School, and features play-based learning environments designed to support strong connections between children and educators, along with dedicated indoor and outdoor spaces that encourage active, inclusive learning.

The project was made possible through a partnership between the City of London and the London District Catholic School Board. The City contributed $440,000 through Municipal Child Care Expansion funding, while the school board worked with YMCA of Southwestern Ontario to build the child care centre within the school. Locating child care in a high school creates unique opportunities for learning and collaboration between students and young children.

As the Service System Manager under the Child Care and Early Years Act, the City of London is responsible for planning, funding, and supporting licensed child care and early years services that promote positive outcomes for children and families.

The new spaces also support the goals of the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care system, which aims to improve affordability and expand access to licensed child care for families. Fee subsidy is also available through the City’s Child Care and Early Years division to help eligible families with the cost of care. These programs are supported with funding from the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada.

“In order to build a thriving and inclusive city, we need to ensure families have the supports they need to succeed. Expanding access to high-quality, affordable child care is one of the most important investments we can make in London’s future," said Mayor Josh Morgan. “This new centre is a great example of what we can achieve through strong community partnerships, and I’m grateful to all involved for helping to create opportunities that will benefit children and Londoners for years to come.”

“We are pleased to partner with the City of London and the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario to celebrate the opening of a new licensed childcare program at John Paul II Catholic Secondary School. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to supporting families and strengthening our community," said Vince Romeo, Director of Education, London District Catholic School Board. “Through thoughtful planning and continued collaboration with our community partners, we are creating welcoming and safe spaces, where students and families can feel supported and thrive.”

“YMCA, child care is where belonging begins — where children are seen, celebrated, supported, and encouraged to learn through play every day," said Andrew Lockie, CEO, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario. “We’re proud to partner with the City of London and the London District Catholic School Board to open John Paul II YMCA Child Care and add 47 new licensed spaces for toddlers and preschoolers. This centre will help more families access high-quality, inclusive care close to home, so parents can work and children can thrive.”

YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is a non-profit, community-based organization with more than 170 years of experience in delivering inclusive programs and services for children and families. The YMCA has operated day care nurseries in southwestern Ontario since the early 1900s and began offering licensed child care programs in the late 1960s.

With the addition of John Paul II YMCA Child Care, London’s licensed child care system now grows to 218 licensed child care locations, providing 17,821 child care spaces for children up to 12 years of age across London and Middlesex.

London Clean & Green begins

Today, City of London staff joined London Clean & Green partners and volunteers to kick off the annual London Clean & Green campaign.

The annual campaign encourages community clean-ups across the city during its 12 Days of Cleaning, 20-Minute Makeover, and Community Clean-up events.

“For years, London Clean & Green has showcased the immense pride and care that Londoners feel for their neighbourhoods and our collective dedication to building a better, healthier city,” says Mayor Josh Morgan.

“Every action taken, big or small, is a step toward a cleaner London. I encourage everyone to take a moment over the next 12 days to get involved. Together, we can make an incredible difference for our communities.”

Residents can map and share their clean-up locations online to coordinate efforts, invite others, and avoid overlap. Residents can also request garbage bags, disposable gloves, and sharps containers through the request form online while supplies last.

“We always look forward to working with our London Clean & Green partners to encourage and support community-led clean-ups throughout the city,” says Shawna Chambers, Director of Climate Change, Environment and Waste Management, City of London. “We are reminded each year of how much we can accomplish as a community. We are excited to see how much we can clean together this year, particularly after
seeing the extra litter that the snowmelt revealed this year!”

Above: Photo of Graham Henderson (CEO of London Chamber of Commerce), Bev Kobe (President and CEO of Goodwill Industries, Ontario Great Lakes), Shawna Chambers (Director of Climate Change, Environment and Waste Management, City of London), Deputy Mayor Shawn Lewis, Councillor Anna Hopkins, Councillor Skylar Franke, Charlie Smith (Owner of Toboggan), and Councillor Corrine Rahman.

12 Days of Cleaning

From April 7 to April 18, residents are invited to take part in the 12 Days of Cleaning. Whether you’re decluttering your home, clearing out the garage, or tackling spring cleaning, remember to prevent litter, sort it right, and dispose of unwanted items responsibly.

Information about the City’s EnviroDepots is available online.

Residents can also learn more about what goes where in London’s waste program by using the Recycle Coach app.

20-minute London Makeover

On Friday, April 17, local businesses, institutions, and schools are encouraged to spend 20 minutes cleaning up outside their workplace. You’ll be amazed at what a difference 20 minutes can make!

Community Clean-up

On Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., London Clean & Green will conclude with the Community-wide Clean-up! Several community-led clean-ups are planned throughout the city, and you are encouraged to join (or organize!) one.

Participating in London Clean & Green is one of many ways residents can support the City’s environmental initiatives and take action on climate change.

The 2026 Renew London program, the City’s yearly plan to fix and improve roads, bridges, and transit, is delivering major upgrades throughout the community. This level of work reflects what’s needed to keep pace with a growing city, and we’re planning and delivering these projects in a way that keeps London moving.

This year, the program includes approximately $285 million in new projects, along with another $100 million in ongoing work from last year. This level of investment reflects what it takes to keep up with a growing city and ensure streets and infrastructure can support more people, homes, and businesses in the years ahead.

Londoners will notice construction across major roads and intersections, as well as bridges, sidewalks, bike lanes, and transit routes. While the work is extensive, projects are carefully coordinated to keep key routes open and reduce disruption wherever possible.

At the same time, these investments are focused on improving how people move around the city. Roads will be safer, aging infrastructure will be upgraded, and new sidewalks, bike lanes, and transit improvements will create more reliable options for everyone, whether they are driving, walking, biking, or taking transit.

With more people comes greater demand on roads, transit, and other infrastructure. The Renew London program is building ahead, ensuring the city can support growth while keeping people moving safely today and into the future.

“London has experienced some of the fastest population growth in the country over recent years, so the scale of infrastructure investment we are undertaking is essential to meet our current and future needs,” says Mayor Josh Morgan. “With these funds we are building a smarter city that works for all residents by connecting neighbourhoods, supporting businesses, and keeping London moving safely.”

2026 Highlights

You will see a mix of work across the city. Some projects are major road upgrades on key routes, designed to
reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and support growth. Others focus on essential maintenance, such as
fixing old roads, repairing bridges, and renewing water, storm, and sewer systems.

This work represents:

• more than 100 lane kilometres of road (about 250 laps around a running track)
• 20 intersections will be upgraded
• more than 30 kilometres of new or replaced water, storm, and sanitary infrastructure (roughly the length of
  3,000 school buses lined up)

“The sheer scale of work this year reflects the city’s commitment to strengthening critical corridors, upgrading key intersections, and expanding capacity across London. Each project is carefully planned to ensure that as the city grows, the infrastructure is ready to support residents, businesses, and daily travel for years to come.” says Jennie Dann, Director of Construction and Infrastructure Services.

Construction in 2026 also includes continued work on the south and east Rapid Transit corridors, representing the final phases of London’s first approved routes. These projects will improve transit reliability, upgrade underground pipes and infrastructure, and help more people move efficiently through the city.

The year will also see more Infrastructure Renewal Projects (IRPs), where multiple improvements such as road, sewer, watermain and utility work are completed at the same time in neighbourhoods.

This coordinated approach fixes everything at once meaning fewer disruptions over time. Underground work, including sewer and water upgrades, remains just as important, even if it’s not always obvious to the public, as much of this critical work takes place below the surface.

2026 Top ten projects

Each year, the City highlights ten major construction projects that offer the largest benefits, impacts and scope of work. The 2026 Top Ten Projects include:

• Highbury Avenue South Road Rehabilitation - Improves travel between London and Highway 401, supporting regional economic growth.
• Phillip Aziz Avenue and Western Road Improvements - Makes the area near Western University safer and easier to travel for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
• The Queen’s Bridge Rehabilitation - Rebuilds the bridge deck and key structures, adds a multi-use path for walking and cycling, upgrades pedestrian crossings, and strengthens shoreline protection.
• Sunningdale Road West Improvements - Expands the road, improves safety, and supports future development in northwest London.
• Kilally Infrastructure Project - Updates the road and surrounding corridor to support growth and make active transportation safer and easier.
• Bradley Avenue Extension - Completes an important road connection to improve mobility and support city growth.
• Wellington Gateway Phase 2 - Final stages of the south Rapid Transit corridor, including road, transit, and underground infrastructure upgrades.
• East London Link Phase 3: Highbury Bridge - Replaces aging bridge structures, improves regional connections, and supports transit infrastructure.
• East London Link Phase 4: Oxford Street East - Continues construction along the corridor with upgrades to the roadway, active transportation options, and transit facilities.
• East London Link Phase 5: Dundas Street - Completes the East London Link corridor, allowing full Rapid Transit operations and supporting development in surrounding areas.

Advancing rapid transit

Rapid Transit remains a major part of London’s construction program, with significant progress already completed and the project now entering its final phases. As work continues on the Wellington Gateway and East London Link, the focus is shifting toward completing the remaining sections and preparing for the visible transformation above ground.

On Wellington Road, from Wilkins Street to Exeter Road, crews are finishing transit stations, traffic signals, multi-use paths, landscaping, paving, and painting red bus lanes. Phase 2, between Watson Street and Wilkins Street, will take the next two years to rebuild and widen the road, adding dedicated centre-running lanes for rapid transit buses.

On the East London Link, most construction on Dundas Street, between Egerton Street and McCormick Boulevard, was completed in 2025. Crews will return in spring and summer 2026 for final paving and red bus lane painting. Work on Highbury Bridge will continue into 2026, and Phase 5 will begin in spring on Dundas Street. This next stage connects McCormick Boulevard through to Highbury Avenue, completing the corridor.

Rapid transit buses and schedules are not yet running and won’t be until construction of the Wellington Gateway and East London Link is complete. In the meantime, London T ransit’s current buses will continue to use the dedicated bus lanes and transit shelters on their routes (like on King Street downtown).

The new rapid transit system is being built to give Londoners faster, more reliable, and more convenient travel across the city. T o make this possible, major changes are needed. Roads are being widened and dedicated bus lanes are being added so buses can move efficiently without getting stuck in regular traffic, and traffic can avoid being disrupted by busses. These improvements will help people get to work, school, and appointments more efficiently while supporting the city’s long-term growth and reducing congestion.

How to stay informed

Construction season ramps up this spring, which means road closures, lane reductions, and traffic congestion are coming soon.

While construction is necessary, the City is focused on minimizing impacts through careful planning, detours, and clear communication. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra travel time during peak periods.

To stay informed, Londoners can:

Follow projects that affect you on the City’s Get Involved website. By clicking the “Follow” button at the top of a project’s webpage, email updates will be sent directly to your inbox. Each construction project page also includes a contact form, allowing residents to connect directly with the project team for any questions or concerns.

Subscribe for email updates about the Rapid Transit projects East London Link and Wellington Gateway.

Follow the City on social media, like Instagram, and Facebook. All major road closures are posted in advance so you can plan your route.

Use the Renew London map. It’s an interactive tool showing ongoing and planned construction, including road closures and lane restrictions. You can search by street name or date to see what work is happening and when.

The City will continue using a coordinated communications approach, including project updates, signage, social media, and direct outreach, to keep residents and businesses informed throughout the construction season.