No. H068/11
For release - August 5, 2011
New interchange improves traffic flow on Anthony Henday Drive
EDMONTON - Motorists will enjoy a safe and more efficient ride in Edmonton's west end as a new interchange replaces a signalized intersection at Lessard Road and the Anthony Henday Drive ring road.
The new interchange will open to traffic on August 6. The Government of Canada contributed half of the funding for the $21.9-million project through the Building Canada Fund while the Alberta government contributed the remainder of the funding.
"Our government partnered with the Province on this major transportation project as part of our Economic Action Plan to guide Canada successfully through the global recession," said the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister Responsible for Northern Alberta. "Building the Lessard-Henday interchange created much-needed jobs and infrastructure that will benefit Edmontonians for decades."
The new interchange eliminates a set of lights on Anthony Henday Drive's main line and allows traffic to flow freely through the intersection with Lessard Road.
"Investing in our provincial highway network supports thousands of jobs today, lays the foundation for economic growth, and supports our communities," said the Honourable Luke Ouellette, Minister of Transportation. "This new interchange will improve traffic flow and accommodate continued growth in the area."
Construction started in 2009 and the new interchange is part of a plan to make Anthony Henday Drive completely free-flowing by the fall of 2011.
"Completing this interchange will ease traffic flow through this essential corner of Edmonton's road network," said Stephen Mandel, Mayor of Edmonton. "The City of Edmonton is pleased to reach another milestone on the road to a more sustainable urban transportation system."
The Alberta government is working to build a better Alberta by fostering economic growth, strengthening our health and education systems, investing in infrastructure, supporting safe and strong communities, and ensuring a clean and healthy environment.
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