The Bulletin Breakdown | Waymo in Toronto, Buy Ontario Rules & SUVs vs Roads (April 20, 2026)

This week’s episode covers three stories shaping the future of transportation technology, procurement policy, and road infrastructure:

🤖 Waymo Looks to Test in Toronto

Autonomous vehicle company Waymo is preparing to apply for Ontario’s AV pilot program, which would allow it to test vehicles on public roads. While this would be limited to testing—not commercial service—it raises important questions about regulation, job impacts, and how AVs could affect congestion and transit ridership. Both provincial and municipal leaders are watching closely as the technology edges closer to Canadian roads.

📋 Buy Ontario Rules Finalized

The Province has released final guidance on its Buy Ontario directive for municipalities, outlining how the rules will apply to fleet and infrastructure procurement. The framework includes key exemptions for operational feasibility, emergencies, and value-for-money considerations, while also clarifying how the directive interacts with existing trade agreements. Municipalities will need to carefully document decisions as they navigate the new requirements.

🚙 SUVs Are Making Potholes Worse

New research suggests that heavier vehicles like SUVs are accelerating road wear and contributing to worsening potholes. As vehicle sizes increase, roads designed for lighter traffic are under greater stress. At the same time, deteriorating road conditions are pushing more drivers toward larger vehicles, creating a feedback loop that puts additional pressure on municipal infrastructure.