By rdnewsNOW staff

New Highway 2/Gaetz Ave. Interchange officially opens

Nov 19, 2018 | 12:51 PM

The long-awaited opening of the new QE2 / Gaetz Avenue Interchange in Red Deer has now arrived.

Alberta Transportation officials say the new interchange will improve traffic flow and safety for highway travellers, local residents and commuters and businesses in the Red Deer area.

“This section of the QEII has always been a pinch-point for motorists,” says Brian Mason, Minister of Transportation, in a release. “Alberta Transportation, the City and County of Red Deer, along with the contractor, worked diligently to make sure we could safely open the interchange in time for the Canada Winter Games this February. This new interchange improves the flow of traffic and increases safety on a heavily travelled stretch of highway.”

Red Deer Mayor Tara Veer says the community appreciates the modernized interchange.

“The new interchange will greatly enhance safety and improve access for citizens in Red Deer and region, as well as for the thousands of our fellow Canadians who will be joining us from across our country for the Canada Winter Games.”

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Red Deer County Mayor Jim Wood says The County is thrilled to see the project come to a conclusion.

“This was a massive project, and, in only two years, we have completely changed the way that motorists access Gasoline Alley and the City of Red Deer,” he exclaims. “This project has improved vehicle safety and efficiency – which creates even greater demand for local businesses. We are also excited to see the beginning of a new business area adjacent to the highway, at the Junction of Highways 2 and 42.”

Flatiron Constructors Canada is the contractor that was awarded the $80 million contract to build the new interchange.

“Bringing this project in on schedule required extensive collaboration between all partners, and an impressive level of commitment from our crews and sub-contractors,” says Brett Heintz, Project Manager, Flatiron. “Our teams have worked hard through many nights and weekends, and in all kinds of weather, to get us to this point. We’re proud of the work they’ve done and to have contributed to a safer, more efficient travel experience.”

Construction of the Highway 2/Gaetz Avenue interchange began in 2016. The project includes five new bridges, new on and off ramps for northbound and southbound traffic, the widening and realignment of Highway 2 and the integration of the Taylor Drive and Gaetz Avenue interchanges. Minor finishing work, such as final paving, signage, guardrail installation and landscaping, will be completed in 2019.