The Ontario government is proposing changes that would allow single-occupant vehicles to use high-occupancy vehicle lanes during off-peak hours on provincial highways.
The proposal, introduced by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario, would amend the Highway Traffic Act to make greater use of existing infrastructure and reduce congestion. The government says modelling shows the change would improve travel times for all drivers, with increased average speeds in both HOV and general-purpose lanes outside peak periods.
“Gridlock is costing our economy billions of dollars every year and robbing Ontario drivers of valuable time and quality of life,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria. “By allowing single-occupant vehicles to use HOV lanes during off-peak hours, we would help keep drivers moving across the province, so they can spend less time in traffic and more time with their families and friends.”
HOV lanes are currently reserved for vehicles carrying two or more people, along with buses, taxis, green-plate vehicles, airport limousines, motorcycles and emergency vehicles. Under the proposed changes, solo drivers could access HOV lanes during designated off-peak times, which would be determined through traffic data analysis and public consultation. Peak weekday commuting hours would remain restricted.
“Expanding the use of HOV lanes would give more drivers the freedom to choose which lanes they use outside of rush hour,” said Hardeep Singh Grewal. “By rethinking our approach to HOV lanes, we’re standing up for drivers and ensuring we get the most out of Ontario’s transportation network.”
Ontario currently has 237 kilometres of HOV lanes, with plans to add another 146 kilometres. The government says the proposed changes could take effect before the end of 2026 following consultations.
