Alberta’s government is investing $117 million to twin an important economic corridor of Highway 63 from Mildred Lake to south of the Peter Lougheed Bridge that sees nearly 11,000 commuters and commercial vehicles daily.
By twinning Highway 63, Albertans will have safer commutes and will be more connected to northern communities. The twinning will also support the rapid and sustained growth in the industrial areas north of Fort McMurray and will help create future investment in the region.
"The rapid and sustained growth in activity north of Fort McMurray makes Highway 63 one of the most critical economic corridors in our province. Making it safer for the hard-working oilsands employees who help keep our economy going is a natural next step. This is one more way we are focused on growing Alberta’s economic momentum.”
“Budget 2023 is focused on securing Alberta’s future by growing the economy. Our investment in Highway 63, one of Alberta’s most important economic corridors, will enhance and grow our economy, providing an expanded link for the movement of overweight/oversized cargo destined to the oilsands. It will also improve safety and reduce travel times for the thousands of people who rely on the oilsands for employment.”
“Economic corridors are critical investment to help access the untapped potential of northern Alberta but they are also a way to improve people’s lives. The twinning of this portion of Highway 63 is another example of how our government is making a difference. This project will shorten commute times and improve the work-life balance of many people in Fort McMurray.”
“I am pleased to see the twinning of Highway 63 move forward. These upgrades will help local residents have faster and safer commutes while helping the Fort McMurray region grow the local economy.”
“The work that happens here every day drives Alberta’s economy and plays a critical role in supporting sustainable economic stability and social prosperity in Alberta and across Canada. This important investment by the province is welcome news that recognizes that when our region succeeds, so does Alberta.”
“Twinning Highway 63 is one of our region’s highest transportation priorities. It will directly benefit thousands of residents who rely on this route to get to work every day, and it will help our major employers lower supply costs.”
Preliminary work, such as clearing land for the project, will begin this fall with construction to begin in spring 2024.
Budget 2023 secures Alberta’s future by transforming the health-care system to meet people’s needs, supporting Albertans with the high cost of living, keeping our communities safe and driving the economy with more jobs, quality education and continued diversification.
Quick facts
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The average daily traffic count on this section of Highway 63 is approximately 11,680 vehicles at the south end and 6,770 vehicles at the north end of this section.
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The project was initiated in response to the rapid and sustained growth in industrial activity north of Fort McMurray and a corresponding increase in traffic volumes.
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Highway 63 is one of the most critical economic corridors in Alberta as the only major highway leading to the oilsands.