Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta’s ambitious Deerfoot Trail Improvements Project has achieved another key milestone with the completion of the new Ivor Strong Bridge, bringing the province one step closer to easing traffic congestion along one of Calgary’s busiest roadways.
Provincial officials announced that traffic will begin shifting onto the newly constructed bridge from July 27, allowing rehabilitation work to commence on the existing structure. The phased transition is designed to maintain traffic flow while long-term upgrades continue across the corridor.
Once the project is fully completed, the new bridge will accommodate all southbound traffic, while the refurbished existing bridge will exclusively serve northbound vehicles. Each bridge will provide four traffic lanes, significantly expanding capacity and improving road safety for thousands of commuters who rely on Deerfoot Trail every day.
Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen said the project reflects the government’s commitment to delivering major infrastructure on schedule while improving the daily travel experience for Albertans.
According to the province, construction activity remains underway in several sections of Deerfoot Trail. Crews are continuing work on additional bridge structures, roadway paving, installation of lighting systems, and placement of safety barriers. Motorists have been advised to expect periodic traffic pattern changes through 2026 and 2027 as different phases of construction progress.
Officials said much of the construction is being scheduled during nighttime hours wherever possible to reduce inconvenience to drivers. Routine maintenance activities, including pothole repairs and road marking, are also continuing alongside the major upgrade work.
Once the overall project is completed, transportation planners estimate that morning commute times could improve by around 15 per cent, while evening travel times may be reduced by as much as 22 per cent. The improvements are also projected to save nearly 900,000 hours of travel time each year, offering long-term benefits for commuters, commercial traffic and the regional economy.
The Deerfoot Trail Improvements Project is among Alberta’s largest ongoing transportation initiatives, aimed at modernising critical infrastructure while supporting the province’s growing population and increasing traffic demands.
