The Highway 3 Twinning Development Association (H3TDA) is pleased to welcome the Government of Alberta’s 2026 Budget, which includes a dedicated $152 million investment over the next three years to support the twinning of Highway 3 from east of Bow Island (Whitla) to Medicine Hat — a 36 km segment of highway in southern Alberta.
This targeted funding, included in the 2026–29 Capital Plan, marks a significant step forward for one of southern Alberta’s most critical transportation corridors and will help accelerate work on a remaining two-lane segment of Highway 3.
The Association extends its sincere appreciation to the Government of Alberta for its continued commitment to advancing critical infrastructure in southern Alberta. H3TDA also recognizes and thanks its Executive, Board of Directors, and member municipalities, industry partners, and community supporters whose ongoing advocacy and collaborative efforts continue to keep Highway 3 twinning a provincial priority.
“This investment recognizes the essential role Highway 3 plays in safety, commerce and connection throughout southern Alberta,” said Mayor Gordon Reynolds, Chair of the Highway 3 Twinning Development Association. “Completing the twinning of the Bow Island–Medicine Hat segment will reduce collision risks, support efficient freight movement, and strengthen economic opportunities for our region.”
Key Project and Funding Details
• Section funded: Highway 3 Twinning from east of Bow Island (Whitla) to Medicine Hat.
• Funding amount: $152 million over three years as part of the 2026–29 Capital Plan.
• Purpose: To complete the transition from a two-lane highway to a fully twinned four-lane highway, improving safety and reliability for commuters, commercial vehicles and tourists.
Highway 3 is a principal east–west corridor across southern Alberta, connecting a diverse mix of industries including agriculture, energy, tourism and manufacturing. The strategic importance of this route for transporting goods and people across provincial and international borders means that improvements deliver benefits well beyond local communities.
“Today’s announcement is a strong indication that investments in critical infrastructure remain a priority,” added Director of Advancement Tenille Miller. “This funding advances progress on a corridor that families and businesses depend on every day and is a testament to coordinated advocacy from local municipalities, regional leaders and residents.”
In speaking with Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors, Southern Alberta Regional Director, Darren Davidson, it was noted that, “The budget shows three years of funding, so timing will depend on right-of-way acquisition and utility coordination. It is hoped that we are able to move to construction once these steps are completed; however, timing is still to be determined based on the work required.”
Once completed, the fully twinned Highway 3 corridor will enhance transportation safety by separating traffic flows, reduce travel times, strengthen supply chains and support long-term regional economic growth.
About the Highway 3 Twinning Development Association
The Highway 3 Twinning Development Association is a regional, member-driven advocacy organization dedicated to advancing the planning, funding and completion of full twinning for Highway 3. The Association works with governments, business groups and community partners to promote safety, economic resiliency and connectivity across southern Alberta.