The Government of Alberta announced it is investing $51 million over three years to replace the interchange at the intersection of Highway 566 and the QEII Highway.
The QEII Highway is one of Alberta’s busiest highways and is a vital transportation corridor for industry. Daily traffic on the QEII Highway north and south of Balzac averages 80,000 vehicles per day.
The existing interchange is located at Highway 566 and the QEII Highway, just north of Calgary, near Cross Iron Mills. The total cost of the new interchange is approximately $148 million, including engineering and construction.
“Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring safe and efficient highways for families, industry and other drivers as our economy continues to grow. This new interchange outside of CrossIron Mills will help families cut down on their commute to go shopping, and help local businesses grow,” said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors.
The full project includes the realignment of Highway 566, interchange loop ramps, and bridges. With design now complete, construction is anticipated to begin in 2025 and be completed in 2027. Specific details of the project include:
- realigning Highway 566 to the south of the current QEII Highway and Highway 566 interchange
- QEII Highway and Highway 566 interchange loop ramps
- Bridges:
- Highway 566, at the Canadian Pacific Railway crossing
- Highway 566, across Nose Creek
The new interchange will also accommodate the busy logistics and distribution hub in Rocky View County and several other key industries, including agriculture, energy, manufacturing, transportation and warehousing.
“Local residents and businesses have been asking for this interchange to be replaced for nearly a decade. As the area continues to grow and develop, traffic has become increasingly congested, causing frustration and safety concerns for drivers. As one of the busiest highways in Alberta, this intersection is a critical piece of transportation infrastructure for families, individuals and industry, all of whom rely on it to travel between Calgary and Airdrie. This project will improve traffic flow, enhance safety and support industry,” said Angela Pitt, MLA for Airdrie-East.
“As a growing municipality, Rocky View County welcomes the Alberta provincial government’s announcement of the Hwy 2 overpass infrastructure project. This investment in our transportation infrastructure will not only provide much-needed relief to the businesses and residents in the Balzac area, but will benefit our region by improving traffic flow, enhancing safety, and increasing economic opportunities. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community,” said Crystal Kissel, mayor, Rocky View County.
Construction timing is contingent on completion of preparatory work including utility relocations, any necessary environmental work and project tendering.
Featured image: Alberta Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen. (Government of Alberta)
