Premier Ford says Mulroney was instrumental in government's decision to approve 400-404 link; Ford chatted with guests and volunteers at Bradford festival

Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney, right, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford talk with constituents at Carrot Fest in Bradford, Aug. 17. Miriam King/Bradford Today

1 / 1 Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney, right, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford talk with constituents at Carrot Fest in Bradford, Aug. 17. Miriam King/Bradford Today

Ontario Premier Doug Ford was a surprise visitor to Bradford’s Carrot Fest on Saturday.

Not only is the street festival ranked one of the Top 100 in Ontario, it was also the scene of an important provincial announcement Friday.

Local MPP and Minister of Transportation, Caroline Mulroney, announced that Ford's Progressive Conservative government will be getting the Bradford Bypass back on track immediately by beginning a review of the Environmental Assessment for the link between Highways 400 and 404, and starting work on the design and engineering.

The visit by Ford was an acknowledgement of the work Mulroney has put into advocating for construction of the link - an idea that has been shelved for a decade.

“I give all the credit to Caroline. (She) has been an absolute champion for the area," Ford said.

“Bradford is one of the fastest growing cities in Ontario and we have to be visionary to build for the future,” said Ford. “Going through the crowd, I can tell you one thing: Caroline is loved. I’m so fortunate to have a great Minister of Transportation.”

Mulroney accompanied the Premier as he stopped to greet constituents and visit booths.

Ford chatted with members of Lions Club, the Leos, and food bank volunteers, telling them, “Thank you for the great work you do.”

He also stopped to pose with Bradford West Gwillimbury Council during his hour-long visit.