New Peace River bridge opens

Photo via Alberta Government

Twinning the Peace River bridge has improved critical connections through the community and its construction supported more than 400 jobs.

The new three-lane bridge will also ease congestion for residents and industry. Construction on the bridge began in 2017 and was completed on time.

“We want a safer and stronger northwest Alberta and this new crossing provides just that,” said Transportation Minister Ric McIver in a release. “Twinning the Peace River bridge makes it safer and easier for Albertans to access business and services on both sides of the river. Building this bridge has created hundreds of jobs when Albertans have needed them most.”

The new bridge, part of a $162-million twinning project, will eventually accommodate westbound traffic upon completion of upgrades to the existing bridge, which will handle eastbound traffic.

“This bridge is and has been a great addition to our community. Throughout construction it has bolstered the local economy,” said Peace River Mayor Tom Tarpey. “Peace River is the gateway to northwestern Alberta and the Northwest Territories. This second bridge is going to expand that economic portal. Infrastructure catalyzes development. Roads and bridges are the pipelines for Alberta’s most precious resource – its people.”

About 17,000 vehicles cross the bridge per day.