Photos: Minister Scott Cyr
Residents of Kehewin Cree Nation are facing growing challenges due to the worsening condition of Highway 41, which has been restricted to single-lane alternating traffic and closed to overweight and oversized vehicles north of the Highway 29 junction.
The heavily travelled route normally carries more than 3,000 vehicles daily. Its current limitations are creating significant hardships for the community.
Many residents travel to Elk Point for medical appointments, dental care, and prescription pickups, while the community depends on emergency medical services and police response from the same town.
Concerns were first raised with Alberta Transportation in June when cracks began appearing in the highway. The initial response was that the province was monitoring the situation.
The province acknowledged that a geotechnical slide has developed, forcing the reduction to one-lane traffic to preserve what remains of the roadway. Officials stated they have no timeline for repairs and that a geotechnical consultant is investigating.
MLA Scott Cyr, Parliamentary Secretary for Transportation and Strategic Development, addressed the broader situation in a July 16 social media post following a meeting with the Town of Elk Point. municipalities, and other partners.
He stated that the challenges on Highway 41 are not unique to area.
“Similar issues are being experienced across much of northern Alberta. In fact, conditions near Highway 29 recently deteriorated to the point that a section of Highway 41 (north of the traffic triangle) had to be closed because it was no longer safe for motorists. While crews continue to monitor conditions and respond where needed, the ground remains saturated and water levels are still high in many areas. As conditions improve, we will have a better understanding of the permanent repairs required, and I will continue working with Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors, municipalities, and other partners to advance those solutions.”
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