A troublesome Highway 43 intersection is getting much-needed improvements. The province has started work installing new traffic signals, better lighting and signage, and wider turn lanes at the crossing with Highway 22 near Mayerthorpe.
The upgrades were announced by the province in October 2017, much to the delight of local and provincial politicians. At the time, MLA for Whitecourt-Ste. Anne Oneil Carlier admitted they were a long-time coming.
“I am thrilled to see these safety improvements that have long been sought by motorists who are familiar with this intersection. I’m certain that the new lights and intersection improvements will prevent serious collisions in the future, perhaps saving lives.”
The Town of Mayerthorpe has been pushing for changes to the intersection for the past 10 years, as it’s been the scene of many vehicle collisions. RCMP have said one of the issues is that many drivers stop in the middle of the intersection, waiting for those on the other side who have a stop sign.
It’s expected the entire project will cost between $1 and $1.5 million. Construction is slated to take until October 15th, during daytime hours, with the speed limit in the area reduced to 50 kilometres an hour.
The province says more than 10,000 vehicles pass through Highway 43/Highway 22 intersection on an average day.
