Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Alberta government has announced a major increase in funding for the maintenance of Highway 63, committing $15 million specifically for repairs on the crucial route as part of a broader expansion of the province’s highway maintenance budget.
In a statement released on Saturday, Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen said the government is responding to public concerns over deteriorating road conditions and acknowledged the advocacy of Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche MLA Brian Jean and Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo MLA Tany Yao.
The province is adding more than $22.4 million to its overall highway maintenance program, representing an increase of nearly 60 per cent compared to last year. Of that amount, $15 million has been earmarked exclusively for Highway 63, one of Alberta’s busiest transportation corridors.
According to the government, the additional funding will support extensive patch paving, pothole repairs, and other maintenance work aimed at improving driving conditions, particularly in and around the Fort McMurray region.
Officials also announced plans to fast-track two major paving projects. One contract will resurface 48 kilometres of the southbound lanes of Highway 63 near Wandering River, while another will pave 30 kilometres across sections of Highway 63 and Highway 881 in the Fort McMurray area.
To improve transparency, the province said the highway maintenance contractor will now provide daily updates outlining scheduled work and completed repair projects along Highway 63.
Minister Dreeshen said ensuring Highway 63 remains safe and dependable remains a top priority, adding that the government will continue investing in road infrastructure to support motorists and strengthen Alberta’s transportation network.
