"This is good news for Ontarians," said John D. Hull, President of the Ready Mixed Concrete Association of Ontario. "Concrete pavements are sustainable pavements and present a lower total cost of ownership than their asphalt alternative, because they are more durable and require significantly less maintenance and rehabilitation. Today, concrete roads are also competitive on initial construction costs, and increasingly so due to the ever rising cost of raw materials required for asphalt roads. Both of these factors make concrete a sound value for taxpayers now and over time. Furthermore, concrete pavements better serve the public since they require less frequent maintenance activities and thus significantly reduce traffic disruption."

The ten most recent alternative bids tendered by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) have all been awarded to the concrete pavement option, saving the province well over $45 million dollars when compared to the lowest asphalt bids.

"We applaud Minister Chiarelli and the Ministry of Transportation for recognizing the undeniable economic, environmental and performance benefits of concrete pavements and taking action to allow more concrete bids to be considered for our roads," said Michael McSweeney, President and CEO of the Cement Association of Canada.

Renowned for its safety, durability and resiliency, concrete is also energy efficient, recyclable and cost effective. It is produced locally, benefiting local economies and the environment. Concrete pavements further contribute to lowering our communities' carbon footprint by reducing the "heat island" effect thanks to their light color and lowering fuel consumption and energy emissions by heavy trucks.

The cement and concrete industries employ over 16,000 Ontarians and generate over $6 billion of economic activity in the province.