Improvements for deadly intersection
Pictured at the 22/43 intersection that has been the scene of many traffic incidents, some resulting in tragedy are: Mayerthorpe Peace Officer Dwight Dawn, Mayerthorpe Councilor Sandy Morton, Mayerthorpe Mayor KaterPatrick, Mayerthorpe Councilor Jon Arsenault, MLA Oneil Carlier, Mayerthorpe Councilor Pat Burns, LSAC Councilor Ross Bohnet, LSAC Councilor Steve Hoyda , Mayerthorpe Councilor Bernie Jogola, LSAC Councilor Lloyd Gielblehaus and Mayerthorpe Councilor Janet Jabush (in front).
Local leaders are thanking the Alberta NDP government for increasing safety in the intersection of Highways 22 and 43.
The intersection will see improvements including new traffic lights, better lighting, improved highway signage and widened turn lanes. These improvements will help to make life better for local residents and travelers on an important Alberta trade corridor. Installation of the new infrastructure is scheduled for the 2018 construction season.
Oneil Carlier, MLA for Whitecourt-Ste. Anne and Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, said the project will certainly improve the safety of motorists who use the intersection.
“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. I’m proud to be part of this government that is working to help all Albertans,” he said.
Kate Patrick, Mayor of Mayerthorpe, said the town’s current and former councils are to be commended for their advocacy over the past ten years for safety improvements to this intersection.
“On behalf of council I wish to commend the province for acknowledging and investing in this project which enhances the safety of this intersection serving two primary highways. Both of these primary highways intersect at the main entrance to the town, see a large volume of traffic on a daily basis, and will see increased traffic as development occurs over time,” said the mayor.
Ross Bohnet, Division 6 Councillor of Lac Ste. Anne County, also welcomes the project.
“As the councillor representing the many rural people who regularly use this intersection I welcome this project and hopefully it will stop the accidents. The intersection at Highway 22/43 has been the scene for many bad accidents over the
years and I am glad the province is addressing this issue.”
On an average day more than 10,000 vehicles pass through the Highway 22/43 intersection. Highway 43 forms part of the busy Canamex Trade Corridor linking Alberta to the United States interstate highway system.