Highway 53 Corridor Improvements

Throughout construction, regular updates on the Highway 53 Corridor Improvement Project will be posted here. You can also view drone footage here.

• Upgrades to the 46 Street intersection on Highway 53, including paving, concrete, lighting and realignment of that intersection. These improvements will require trenching and excavation to complete underground electrical work and utility relocation;
• The trail connection to 46 Street;
• Remaining landscaping between 50 Street and 46 Street; and
• Light poles from 46 Street to 38 Street. 

Improvements along the roadway completed in 2025 include:

• Pavement resurfacing and concrete repairs; 
• Intersection improvements at 45 Avenue; 
• Closure of 54 Street access at Highway 53 (following a safety assessment that identified safety concerns at that intersection); 
• Stormwater infrastructure upgrades; 
• New upgraded streetlighting; 
• Expansion of the Town’s multi-use trail network along Highway 53 with a new paved trail extending from Highway 2A to 46 Street;
• Fencing and landscaping; and
• Wayfinding signage and the ceremonial renaming of the roadway to Rodeo Drive.

Upgrades to the 46 Street intersection on Highway 53 will be completed in spring 2026, including milling, paving, new signal lights and street lights. 

These improvements at the 46 Street intersection require some trenching and excavation to complete underground electrical work and utility relocates, which is why milling and paving of that intersection will be completed in spring 2026 rather than in 2025.

The approved project budget of $8.2 million is being jointly funded by Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors, the Town of Ponoka off-site levy reserve and a debenture through the Town’s Borrowing Bylaw.

These upgrades are addressing deteriorating pavement conditions, reducing ongoing maintenance challenges and improving overall roadway safety. As a major gateway to our downtown and to the Town’s largest tourist attraction, the Ponoka Stampede, these improvements will drive long-term economic growth for our community.

The Highway 53 Corridor improvements align with Council’s strategic priorities of investing in Town infrastructure and building a vibrant community. The project is also based on recommendations in the Town’s Transportation Master Plan and Urban Framework Master Plan.