FORT MCMURRAY, AB, Nov. 7, 2012 /CNW/ - Motorists on Highway 63 can now access adjacent residential areas in Fort McMurray more quickly and safely. The new Confederation Way Interchange opens to traffic Wednesday, November 7, and is another milestone in a long line of infrastructure improvements for the region.
"Our government's commitment to this growing economic region has meant constant improvements to safety all along Highway 63. This important interchange is another positive change in the landscape," said Ric McIver, Minister of Transportation. "In the last year alone, traffic has opened up on the Thickwood Boulevard Interchange and the impressive Athabasca Bridge. Now, local residents are enjoying even smoother travel throughout the Regional Municipality."
"This investment will help keep Canadians safe on Highway 63, while supporting long-term growth and boosting the productivity of our economy," said Brian Jean, Member of Parliament for Fort McMurray—Athabasca. "The Government of Canada is proud to provide significant financial support for improvements that will ease congestion and improve travel times on this heavily-used corridor."
This $180 million project to improve the Thickwood Boulevard and Confederation Way Interchanges is being jointly funded by the federal and provincial governments, with the Government of Canada contributing up to $40 million through the Building Canada Fund and the province contributing the balance.
Continued work on the project involves widening Highway 63 to six lanes between the two interchanges, building service roads, completing ramps and tie-ins and constructing retaining walls. Temporary routes will be in place over the winter on both interchanges to accommodate ongoing roadwork. There will continue to be construction activities in the vicinity into next year.
Motorists are reminded to drive with caution in construction zones and obey all signs, flag people and posted speed limits. Fines for speeding are double when workers are present.
Highway 63 information and construction updates are available via Twitter through @ABTransComm or #safe63 and on the Alberta Transportation website, www.transportation.alberta.ca/4942.htm.
SOURCE: Government of Canada
Media inquiries may be directed to:
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