Drivers are being urged to steer clear of the Quesnell Bridge, as a major overhaul to breathe new life into Edmonton’s busiest stretch of road begins.
Officials have called the project the “busiest traffic disruption” facing the city of Edmonton.
Seeing 120,000 vehicles each day, the bridge is at capacity, and in need of a major renovation, said Byron Nicholson, director of roadway construction.
The plan to widen and add shoulders to the bridge will add about 50 years to its lifespan, Nicholson said.
“Any short-term interruptions caused by construction will be well worth the long-term benefits,” he added.
The westbound portion of the bridge will be closed for the next few weeks, as traffic is shifted to the east side of the deck.
The project, which is slated to wrap up in December, will cause delays for transit riders, whose routes will be adjusted according to traffic volumes, backups, and delays.
Information about updated routes can be found daily online. Additionally, digital messaging signs have been placed along Whitemud Drive from 50 Street to 170 Street to warn motorists about possible delays ahead.
