The Alberta government is investing in a new agrifood corridor to help workers at JBS Food Canada near Brooks.
"Alberta’s government is providing the County of Newell with $1.8 million for a new road connection between Highway 873 and the JBS Food plant," said the province in a statement.
"Providing an alternative access to and from the JBS Food plant will improve safety and efficiency for thousands of County of Newell residents while also saving workers up to an hour and a half a day getting to and from the plant."
According to the provincial government, the new road will help traffic flow more easily, while reducing the potential for collisions.
“The City of Brooks and the County of Newell continue to grow and the recent announcement of the JBS Foods expansion has solidified this region’s position as a growing agrifood economic powerhouse," said Arno Doerksen, reeve of the County of Newell.
Brooks city councillor Joel Goodnough said the news is vital for workers at JBS Foods.
"These investments will foster stronger communities, create jobs and grow the local economy.”
JBS Foods Canada employs 3,200 people, and in 2024 it announced $90 million for expansion of its storage and distribution facilities.
“This access road will significantly improve the quality of life for our team members in Brooks in many ways, ranging from childcare to transportation costs to safety," said Celio Fritche, president of JBS Foods.
According to the province, about 8,500 vehicles use Highway 1 in the area, and around 5,500 vehicles use Highway 873.
Design is complete, and a construction tender will start in the spring, with completion expected by fall 2025.