Ponoka sets start date for major road project

PONOKA -- The Town of Ponoka's Highway 53 Corridor Improvements Project is set to begin on July 14th.

The multi-year project will include major upgrades to the highway and is expected to be completed by summer 2026. While the majority of the work will start on July 14th, 2025, the Town says that some preliminary work may involve underground storm sewer and concrete curb removals. They note that this early work will not affect traffic, or impede the upcoming Ponoka Stampede.

For this year, work will include the installation of storm, paving, concrete, electrical, and trail improvements, as well as surface and signal installation at the 46th Street and Highway 53 intersection. The multi-use trail system along the highway and connections to the river valley, wayfinding signage along the highway corridor, and the Rodeo Drive entrance markers will also be completed in 2025. The Township notes that Highway 53 lighting installations may continue during winter months.

The work scheduled for 2026 will include continued work on the Highway 53 and 46th Street intersection, and the installation of final landscaping and lighting. An additional scope to replace lighting on Highway 2A may occur, subject to funding. A ground-breaking ceremony event has not yet been announced but is expected sometime in early July.

The total budget for Ponoka's Highway 53 Corridor Improvements Project is $8,227,000. This will be reviewed during the Town's next budget deliberations scheduled for November of this year.