Major road construction returns on Highway 53

PONOKA -- Ponoka residents are advised that road construction has officially resumed along Highway 53.

This marks the start of the second year of major improvements along the highway, which got underway in 2025 in partnership between the Town of Ponoka and Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors. As part of last year's work, crews completed various tasks, including pavement resurfacing and concrete repairs between Highway 2A and 38 Street, new, paved multi-use trails along the north side of the highway between Highway 2A and 50 Street, stormwater infrastructure upgrades, and more.

For this year, crews will work to complete the following:

• Upgrades to the 46 Street intersection, including new traffic lights, paving, concrete, street lighting, and realignment of that intersection. These improvements will require trenching and excavation to complete underground electrical work and utility relocation
• The multi-use trail connection at 46 Street
• Remaining landscaping and clean up
• Light poles from 46 Street to 38 Street
• Wayfinding signage.

Ponoka staff say traffic flow on Highway 53 will be maintained with at least one lane of traffic open in both directions at all times. They remind pedestrians and motorists to proceed with caution around work crews and observe road signs and flagging personnel. 

"The Highway 53 Corridor improvements align with Council’s strategic priorities of investing in Town infrastructure and building a vibrant community," said the township in a statement. "The project is also based on recommendations in the Town’s Transportation Master Plan and Urban Framework Master Plan."

Updates on the Highway 53 Corridor Improvements, including any temporary lane closures during construction, will be provided on the Town of Ponoka website. Traffic updates will also be provided through Alberta 511 during the construction.