Highway 53 corridor improvements begin this month.
The Town of Ponoka has partnered with Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors to begin extensive improvements and rehabilitation of Highway 53, between Highway 2A and 38 Street.
Construction is expected to begin after the Ponoka Stampede.
Planned improvements along the corridor include:
- Pavement resurfacing and concrete repairs
- Intersection improvements at 45 Avenue and 46 Street, including new signal lights at the 46 Street intersection
- Closure of 54 Street access at Highway 53
- Stormwater infrastructure upgrades
- New street lighting
- Expansion of the town’s multi-use trail network along Highway 53, with a new paved trail extending from Highway 2A to 46 Street (linking with the existing trail system at 46 Street and 50 Street)
- Fencing, landscaping and wayfinding signage
- The ceremonial renaming of the highway to Rodeo Drive
The project is expected to be completed in 2026.
“The town is excited to begin these improvements to Highway 53 in partnership with Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors. These are extensive upgrades that will greatly enhance the quality of life for Ponoka residents,” said Mayor Kevin Ferguson, noting that improvements like the expanded multi-use trail will help make Ponoka a much more walkable community.
“And as a major gateway to our downtown and to our largest tourist attraction, the Ponoka Stampede, these improvements will drive long-term economic growth for our community,” Ferguson said.
The Highway 53 corridor improvements align with council’s strategic priorities of investing in town infrastructure and building a vibrant community.
A virtual video tour of the planned improvements is available on the Town of Ponoka website at ponoka.ca/p/highway-53.
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