Hanson addresses issues with Highway 28 in the Leg

MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul, David Hanson address the Legislative Assembly of Alberta last week regarding issues with Highway 28 and the need for twinning of the busy roadway.

“The section of Highway 63 to Bonnyville and Cold Lake has been neglected, despite multiple requests,” stated Hanson during Question Period of spring sitting. He posed a question to the Minister of Transportation, the Honourable Ric McIver.

“Will you be reassessing the priority plan and look into this vital stretch of highway?”

McIver responded by citing a recent corridor study done on Highway 28. The study identified a number of improvements including intersection improvements,  passing lane opportunities and places where safety resting areas could be included.

The study also looked at the possible twinning of Highway 28 between Bonnyville and Cold Lake.

“This is amongst our capital planning and budgeting process,” stated the Transportation Minister.

Hanson said improvements are critical, “it’s one of the only routes connecting one of the busiest and most productive bitumen producing areas of the province.”

The MLA stated that given that this area has contributed to the economy, not only to the province but to the country, the roadway should be given some special consideration.

Hanson added that 4-Wing Cold Lake relies on the corridor for all their equipment, fuel and supplies.

“Cold Lake and area are very important and big contributors to the economy,” McIver reiterated that improvements are under consideration.