$122M interchange construction complete near Edmonton airport

The province has announced construction of a new QEII interchange connecting to the EIA

Construction on a busy stretch of highway near the Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is now complete.

The new $122-million interchange on the QEII highway and 65 Avenue in Leduc was funded by the Alberta government and the City of Leduc.

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According to a government news release on Wednesday, the interchange will provide “safer, more efficient connections” between Leduc, YEG airport and businesses in the surrounding area.

“This section of the QEII is one of Alberta’s most important trade corridors and a key connector to the Edmonton International Airport,” a statement from Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen reads. “The completion of this new interchange marks a major step forward in improving safety, reducing congestion, and supporting the efficient movement of goods and people.”

Nearly 9,000 trucks travel on the portion of the QEII each day, and the project is anticipated to save about 1.8 million hours each year on commercial traffic to and from the Edmonton airport, according to Dreeshen’s office. The minister’s office estimates it will translate into about $211-million in annual savings for commercial truck freight costs.

“The 65 Avenue and QEII interchange is a key connection serving our residents, businesses and visitors for generations to come,” City of Leduc Mayor Lars Hansen said in a news release. “Projects on this scale don’t happen alone – we are appreciative of everyone’s contribution in making this interchange a reality.”

The interchange was completed on time and on budget, according to the provincial government. The completed project included a new overpass over the QEII highway, new southbound ramps, two roundabouts, seven kilometres of multi-use pathways, 23 lane-kilometres of new roadway, and other improvements.