City Government

Quesnell Bridge Project Near Completion

November 12, 2010

With construction season coming to a close, motorists can look forward to the opening of an additional lane of traffic in each direction of the Quesnell Bridge and the opening of the Fox Drive exit ramp to Whitemud Drive westbound by the end of November.

“The work remaining for this project in 2011 will include water-proofing and paving work, which requires warm, dry weather to complete,” says Byron Nicholson, Director of Special Projects with the Capital Construction Department. “Crews will also construct a concrete barrier on the east side of the bridge.”

Although motorists can expect to experience some traffic congestion next spring, Edmonton will ultimately benefit from the reconstruction taking place on the city’s busiest bridge. Work taking place now will extend the lifespan of the Quesnell Bridge by 50 years, improving travel times and traffic safety for commuters well into the future.

“This past year, we were able to complete work on the retaining walls near 149 St., the Fox Drive overpass, widening the west side of the Quesnell Bridge, constructing the storm water management facility, and widening Whitemud Drive from 53 Ave. to 149 St.,” says Nicholson. “It’s been a very productive season and we look forward to putting the finishing touches on the Quesnell Bridge project next spring.”

This $161 million project is on budget.

“The City thanks all of the motorists and workers for being safe in and around the construction zone,” says Nicholson. “It’s important that we all work together to get home safely each and every day.”

This winter, the enforced speed limit through the construction zone will be 60 km/h unless otherwise posted.

The Quesnell Bridge carries approximately 120,000 vehicles per day or about 10,000 vehicles per hour during both the morning and afternoon peak periods. There are approximately 4000–5000 pedestrian and cyclist trips across the bridge each week.

The work currently underway represents the first major rehabilitation of the bridge since its construction in 1967, and will ensure that motorists, pedestrians and cyclists are able to commute safely and quickly through the area.

Live streaming video of traffic cameras at key locations in the City can now also be viewed on line at www.edmontontrafficcam.com

For more information:

Ben Mittelsteadt

City of Edmonton

Title	Communications Officer
Telephone	780-496-8275