Overview
This planning study will identify interim and ultimate configurations for an all-weather La Loche Road from Highway 881 to Highway 956.
Background and current issues
Currently La Loche Road is a winter road that is only accessible during the winter months. An all-weather road will enable year-round accessibility via La Loche Road, improving emergency access and promoting industrial development along the route and surrounding areas in the Fort McMurray area.
It will also provide more connectivity between Saskatchewan (via Saskatchewan Highway 956) and Alberta, further bolstering both provinces’ economic growth. Approximately 620 vehicles daily use the intersection of La Loche Road and Highway 881.
The long-term plan for La Loche Road is for it to become a paved secondary highway. The study will also explore an alternate alignments and recommend an future alignment.
Study focus
The study aims to
- determine the future highway and functional classification based on traffic projections, land use, and regional roadway network context
- determine the recommended future alignment of La Loche Road
- provide a comprehensive access management plan
- assess the operational characteristics of the roadway and its intersections
- recommend interim and long-term improvements
Alternate alignment
Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors will identify possible alternative routes and recommend a future alignment.
Public and Indigenous engagement
This planning study will include public consultation, as well as possibly Aboriginal consultation. The Government of Alberta Aboriginal Consultation Office will be engaged to identify First Nation and Metis Nation groups with whom consultation will be required as part of the study. The study area includes important caribou habitat and environmentally sensitive areas, including the Gipsy-Gordon Wildland and Dillon River Wildland Provincial Park. Other aspects of the study will include an environmental reviews to identify potential impacts and suggest mitigation measures.
Environmental review
The Study will include an environmental evaluation, which will:
- determine baseline environmental conditions
- identify potential impacts from construction and operation of the highway
- suggest mitigation measures to limit environmental impacts
The study will also determine if the proposed future work will be subject to review under the Federal Impact Assessment Act.
-
Map | La Loche Road Functional Planning Study AreaLa Loche Road crosses several smalls steams and the Christina River and runs through sensitive caribou range areas.
The proposed alignments run through Gipsy-Gordon Wildland and Dillon River Wildland Provincial Parks, which are regulated by Alberta Forestry and Parks (AFP). AFP has confirmed that the development of multi-use corridors, including public highways, is permitted within Gipsy-Gordon, but not in Dillon River.
Timelines
-
2026
Planning study underway
-
2027
Preliminary plan and final plans anticipated.
-
2028
Design complete; final planning study report drafted.
Benefits
Upgrades to La Loche Road will strengthen the region’s position as an important economic corridor between Alberta and Saskatchewan. Improvements will:
- support better access to the area with benefits for business, tourism, and supply chain security
- improve quality of life by reducing travel times
- add an important evacuation route for emergencies in the region
Contact
For further information about this planning study, please contact Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 403-923-6863
Email: [email protected]