The County of Wetaskiwin has been awarded $1,717,500 from the province through the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP) to replace the bridge on Township Road 470 (Bridge File 168) near Millet.
"This critical investment will support the replacement of a 63-year-old three-span bridge that has reached the end of its serviceable life," the county stated in a press release on June 12.
The county says the "failed structure" (located 1.5 miles west of 2A between Range Road 244 and 243A) has impacted local transportation and regional connectivity.
Bishop previously stated the County of Wetaskiwin has 197 bridges and their average age is 51 years but their average life expectancy is 50 years.
In October, 2024, the county imposed a 10 tonne weight restriction on the bridge 168 due to "poor structural integrity."
"Once replaced, this bridge will restore a key east-west route between Highway 2 and Highway 2A, improving safety and reliability for rural residents, agricultural producers, and commercial traffic," the release stated.
According to the county, the advocacy of Reeve Josh Bishop and county council was essential in securing the funding.
“Township Road 470 is a critical access route connecting Highway 2 and 2A as an economic corridor for locals and non-locals alike,” said Bishop. “This funding will allow us to construct a new bridge to replace the failed structure."
Bishop also expressed appreciation for Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen's support of the project and rural infrastructure.
“Upgrades to water and wastewater infrastructure, airports, bridges, and roads will improve Albertans’ quality of life and everyday travel. Through Budget 2025, we’re proud to continue supporting local communities with these impactful investments,” said Dreeshen.
Engineering and design work for the bridge replacement will begin in 2025, with construction scheduled to take place in 2026.
In the meantime, the county says its exploring interim solutions to increase bridge capacity and restore limited access until the full replacement is completed.
