Province announces speed limit increase for QE II south of Leduc

LEDUC COUNTY -- The province has increased the speed limit on the QE II south of Leduc to 120 km/hour.

This comes as part of a new pilot project administered by Alberta's Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors. Starting today, the increase from 110 to 120 km/hour will apply to the 22-kilometre stretch south of the Leduc Commercial Vehicle Inspection Station in both directions.

"Leduc County is supportive of the Alberta government’s decision to increase the speed limit on Highway 2," said Leduc County Mayor Tanni Dobanko. "The province made significant improvements to the acceleration and deceleration lanes on two overpasses through Leduc County and the County of Wetaskiwin. We appreciate the work completed and look forward to the data that will come from this trial."

The move follows recent public engagement that found that almost 70 per cent of respondents agreed that the province should increase the speed limits on rural divided highways. Safety upgrades have also been made along this section, including improvements to the interchanges, paving to improve the road surface in select areas, and installing additional barriers. Alberta's government has also installed signs informing drivers of the start and end points.

"Albertans told us they support 120 km/h speed limits on rural divided highways," said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors. "Albertans want traffic safety rules that improve the driving experience in our beautiful province."

Dreeshen reminds motorists to drive to the condition of the road. When roads are wet, icy, or when there is reduced visibility, motorists must drive to the conditions.