QEW is an acronym that stands for the Queen Elizabeth Way. It is a major highway in the province of Ontario, Canada. The QEW is significant as it is considered one of the busiest highways in North America, connecting the city of Toronto with the Niagara Region.
The Queen Elizabeth Way was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth, also known as the Queen Mother, who was the wife of King George VI. The highway was officially opened to the public on June 7, 1939, by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, making it one of the oldest highways in Ontario.
Spanning approximately 138 kilometers (86 miles), the QEW serves as a vital transportation link for commuters, tourists, and goods entering and exiting the Greater Toronto Area. It passes through several municipalities, including Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, St. Catharines, and Niagara Falls.
The QEW is known for its multiple lanes, often congested traffic, and important interchanges, such as the Highway 403 junction in Burlington and the Garden City Skyway in St. Catharines. It is frequently used by commuters traveling between Toronto and surrounding areas, as well as tourists visiting the popular attractions in Niagara Falls.
The Queen Elizabeth Way has a significant economic impact, supporting the transportation of goods and fostering regional economic development. It plays a crucial role in connecting communities, facilitating trade, and enhancing travel efficiency within the province of Ontario.
