Highway 53 ribbon-cutting slated for June 26

PONOKA -- An official ribbon-cutting to celebrate the completion of Ponoka's Highway 53 improvement project is set for June 26.

This will come as part of this year's 'Stampede Dignitary Day', which Ponoka staff say serves as a strategic event to strengthen relationships with provincial and federal officials, regional municipalities, and key stakeholders while highlighting important community milestones. 

"In 2026, Dignitary Day will feature the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly completed Highway 53 project, in addition to traditional Stampede activities including the parade, Mayor’s Western Lunch, and the afternoon rodeo," reads a report from Ponoka's Priorities and Initiatives Committee. "The 2026 Dignitary Day is designed to provide guests with a coordinated and memorable experience that highlights the Town’s hospitality and ongoing infrastructure investments."

Work along Highway 53 has been ongoing for nearly a year after first getting underway in July 2025, following last year's Stampede. In partnership with Alberta's Ministry of Transportation and Economic Corridors, this has featured major improvements undertaken between Highway 2A and 38 Street, particularly at the 46 Street intersection. This work has included realignment, paving, new lighting, and landscaping.

Stampede Dignitary Day will get underway on June 26 at 8:00 a.m. with breakfast and guest registration at the Ponoka Arena Complex before the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially begins at 8:45 a.m.