Two major Toronto highways will be shutting down this weekend
If you're planning to drive across Toronto this weekend, be sure to give yourself some extra time, because two major highway closures are expected to draw heavy traffic and thousands of cyclists.
On Sunday, June 1, over 10,000 cyclists will take over the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) and Gardiner Expressway as part of the fourth annual Mattamy Homes Bike for Brain Health, an event that raises funds for Baycrest, Canada's global leader in dementia research and care.
As part of the event, cyclists of all ages will be pedaling freely along some of Toronto's busiest highways completely free from traffic. Participants are set to tackle routes of 25K, 50K, or 75K, with even a 10K family-friendly option that ends in a kids' bike rally.
The bike ride raises funds and awareness in support of Alzheimer's and dementia research, with proceeds going towards Baycrest's initiatives to prevent, detect, and treat cognitive decline.
To make way for the cyclists, all ramps to the Gardiner Expressway will be closed from the Humber River to the DVP from 2 a.m. on June 1, which includes both the east and west lanes to the DVP, Rees/Spadina/Jameson, and South Kingsway ramps.
All ramps to the Don Valley Parkway will also be closed from Lake Shore Boulevard to Highway 401 from 2 a.m. on June 1, including both north and south DVP lanes. All riders are instructed to get off the highways before 1 p.m., so if you're planning to travel in the mid-to-late afternoon, you shouldn't encounter too much traffic.
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or new to riding, the event is open to all, and registration is still available for individuals, families, and corporate teams. If cycling isn't your thing, there are also plenty of volunteer opportunities you can choose from to make sure the day runs smoothly.
Baycrest
