Simcoe Street South in Oshawa, Ontario, has been closed between Avenue and Albany streets since January 12, 2026, for a two-year project to replace a bridge that is over 100 years old. This work is being managed by Metrolinx to allow for the expansion of GO train service to Bowmanville. The project is expected to last until early 2028, cutting off a major route that connects the north and south ends of the city.
Local shop owners say the long closure is hurting their sales because customers are having a hard time reaching their stores. Hassan Mohammed, who runs Baitul Mukarram Supermarket, said many of his customers usually drive from North Oshawa but have stopped coming since the road was blocked. Mike Kantaros, the owner of Big Boy’s Burgers, said the timing is especially difficult because he had only been open for two months before the construction started.
Drivers are currently being detoured to Stevenson Road or Ritson Road South to get around the construction site. People who are walking or cycling can still cross the area by using the Michael Starr Trail. The work has also forced several bus routes to change, including GO bus routes 52, 56, and 92, along with Durham Region Transit routes 92 and N2.
The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce is monitoring the situation as business owners look for ways to keep customers coming back during the two-year closure. This bridge project is happening at the same time as other major road works in the area, including the widening of Highway 401 and repairs on nearby Ritson Road.
