Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors announces new roundabout investment on the corner of Highway 20 and Memorial Trail on Tuesday. (rdnewsNOW/Alessia Proietti)

By Alessia Proietti

Highway 20 and Memorial Trail

Province announces new roundabout in Sylvan Lake to improve traffic

Apr 25, 2023 | 7:38 PM

The provincial government announced on Tuesday they will be investing in a two-lane roundabout at the intersection of Highway 20 and Memorial Trail in the Town of Sylvan Lake.

Officials claim it will improve safety by increasing capacity for more traffic and larger vehicles, accommodating the growing development in the area.

“As our economy continues to grow, Alberta’s government remains committed to ensuring our provincial highways are safe and efficient. This new roundabout near Sylvan Lake will improve the driving experience in this area and relieve pressure on the highway by keeping traffic moving. It will also make it possible for farmers to move their equipment along this section of the highway,” said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors.

The government says the Town completed an intersection assessment in 2019, which recommended a roundabout over traffic lights.

They say tendering, land acquisition, and the design of a detour road and various utility works are expected to begin in 2023, as stated in their Capital Plan. Dreeshen adds that realigning and engineering work as well as public consultation with the community will also take place.

NEW COMMITTEE, ZONING AMENDMENTS, ETC.

Red Deer city council wraps up for 2024

6h ago

110 Units Sold In November

Red Deer home sales lower in November and year-over-year

9h ago

one project in three hills

Three projects will show energy production achievable with less water

10h ago

He says construction is expected to begin and end in 2024.

“We are thrilled about the improvements at the Memorial Trail and Highway 20 intersection. The new roundabout brings improved traffic flow and safety. A customized design addresses both the difficult location at the crest of the hill and the poor sight lines. The changes will result in fewer collisions for all highway users. Future plans include a pedestrian crossing that connects a multi-use trail between the town and Red Deer County. I look forward to seeing the positive impact the roundabout has on Sylvan Lake and the surrounding communities,” said Megan Hanson, Mayor of Sylvan Lake, who added that there have been many near misses in accidents over the years.

Various city and provincial government members gathered at the corner of Highway 20 and Memorial Trail on Tuesday for the announcement of a new roundabout. (rdnewsNOW/Alessia Proietti)

The Alberta government says while they are funding the project, the Town will build it.

Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors recently invested more than $15 million in the Highway 11 twinning project south of Sylvan Lake that included two roundabouts, one at the intersection of Highway 11 and Highway 781, and one at the intersection of Highway 11 and Range Road 15.

READ: First phase of twinning Highway 11 project complete