The Town of Ponoka has partnered with Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors to complete improvements and rehabilitation of Highway 53 (between Highway 2A and 38 Street).
Construction is expected to begin this summer in July (after the Ponoka Stampede ends) and is expected to be completed in 2026.
To view the video tour of the improvements planned for Highway 53, please click here.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the Highway 53 Corridor Improvements Project, please view the Frequently Asked Questions below.
You can also submit an online service request by filling out the online form here or phone the Town Office at 403-783-4431 where staff can help fill out the form for you.
What improvements are going to be made to Highway 53?
Improvements along the roadway will include:
- Pavement resurfacing and concrete repairs;
- Intersection improvements at 45 Avenue and at 46 Street, including new signal lights at the 46 Street intersection;
- 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 (linking with existing trail system at 46 Street and at 50 Street);
- Fencing and landscaping; and
- Wayfinding signage and the ceremonial renaming of the roadway to Rodeo Drive.
Why are there plans to close the access to 54 Street along Highway 53?
Following a safety assessment of that intersection by Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors and the Town of Ponoka, safety concerns were identified as there is limited range of view for oncoming traffic. To address this issue, access to 54 Street will be closed from Highway 53.
When is construction expected to begin this summer?
Construction is expected to begin in July after the Ponoka Stampede.
Where can I find project updates on Highway 53?
Regular updates on the Highway 53 Corridor Improvement Project will be posted here on the Town of Ponoka website throughout construction. Traffic updates will also be provided through Alberta 511 during construction.
Traffic flow on Highway 53 will be maintained throughout the project with at least one lane of traffic open in both directions at all times.
How is the project being funded?
The approved project budget of $8.2 million will be 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.
What will Highway 53 look like once the work is completed?
To view the video tour of the improvements planned for Highway 53, please click here.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is expected to be completed in 2026.
Why are the improvements to Highway 53 necessary?
These upgrades will address deteriorating pavement conditions, reduce ongoing maintenance challenges and improve 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.
