Road improvements

By Mario Prusina Times Editor

Major improvements to Highway 817 through Strathmore and surrounding areas are scheduled to begin June 18 as part of an Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors rehabilitation project.

The work will extend from approximately one kilometre south of Highway 1, through the Town of Strathmore, and north to Township Road 250. Additional improvements will also take place at the intersection of Highway 817 and Highway 564 north of town.

The project includes milling and pavement along approximately eight kilometres of highway in both northbound and southbound lanes. Crews will also complete culvert repairs, replace barriers and delineators, repair sidewalks, curbs and gutters, repaint pavement markings, and install new signage where applicable.

As part of the project, street lighting will be installed at the Highway 817 and Highway 564 intersection to help with safety concerns. That portion of the project is expected to take about one and a half weeks and will have only minor impacts on traffic.

Motorists should expect reduced speed limits in active work zones, localized lane closures, and occasional delays throughout construction.

Construction north of Westmount Drive will generally take place weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. South of Westmount Drive, work will occur overnight on weekdays from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. and on weekends from 8 p.m. to 9 a.m.

Paving is expected to begin following the July long weekend, with the overall project scheduled for completion in early August. No construction work will occur during long weekends or statutory holidays.

Officials say a traffic accommodation strategy has been developed to minimize disruptions and enhance safety for motorists. Additional signage, lane delineation, and illumination may be used throughout the project.

Drivers are reminded to watch for construction crews and obey all posted signs while travelling through the work zones.