This release was issued under a previous government.
“Bridge by bridge, Alberta Transportation is linking communities affected by the flooding, reconnecting kids to their schools and parents to their places of work. This is the promise we made to Albertans, and the promise we have kept as we continue Building Alberta.”
The Bow River bridge on Highway 547 east of Calgary was hit hard by last June’s flooding. Alberta Transportation did extensive work last year to stabilize the structure and construct a berm to prepare the site for the final flood repairs that will reopen this important community connection.
The flooding washed away approximately 60 metres of highway on the bridge’s north approach, severing a critical link for the Siksika Nation, surrounding communities and businesses on either side of the river.
Crews are extending the length of the bridge on the north end to better accommodate any future flood waters and reduce the risk of damage to the highway.
The $2.1 million bridge repair contract will maintain the continued use of the bridge for 10 years and will wrap up by late June, weather permitting.
Additional Information
An average of 1,000 vehicles cross this bridge every day. While Highway 547 will remain closed throughout construction, access to the bridge and crossing will open in late June, weather permitting.
The June 2013 flood was the most costly natural disaster in Canadian history, with recovery costs estimated to be $6 billion.
Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.
Up-to-date road information, including traffic delays, is a click or a call away. Call 5-1-1 toll-free, visit 511.alberta.ca or follow us on Twitter @511Alberta to get on the road to safer travel.