The Government of Saskatchewan announced Monday that work has begun on an $18 million project to replace the entire eastbound lanes bridge structure to go along with major refurbishment of the westbound lanes bridge.
The two structures cover a stretch of CP Rail track located about five kilometres east of the city, meaning travel between Swift Current and Moose Jaw will be affected.
“This is a very significant investment for Swift Current and all of southwest Saskatchewan given the importance of Highway 1 to our area,” said Swift Current MLA Everett Hindley in a press release. “Highway 1 is a key part of the transportation network that keeps our goods moving to other markets and helps our residents get where they need to go as quickly and safely as possible. This is a major project that will take several months to complete and I encourage everyone to drive carefully when going through the construction zone.”
The project is extensive and will begin immediately with the first phase, which will see rehabilitation of the westbound lanes bridge. That portion is expected to take until June, after which the eastbound bridge will be fully replaced, with completion there expected in the fall.
Graham Construction out of Regina will undertake the 10-month project.
The two overpasses see around 6,000 vehicles a day, and because each span will have to be closed during construction, travel delays can be expected. Traffic will be reduced to one lane when crossing each bridge.
Drivers are reminded to observe posted speed limits in work zones and to slow to 60 km/hr when passing highway workers and equipment. If you’re planning to travel, check the Highway Hotline at www.saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline, which provides up-to-date information on construction and other road activities. Information is also available by calling 511.
The work is part of the Government of Saskatchewan’s target of improving more than 1,000 km of provincial highways this year and the first stage in a 10-year, 10,000 kilometre plan to build and upgrade highways.
All told, $300 million is being invested over the next two years on thin membrane surface upgrades, passing lanes and improvements to municipal roads and airports.
