120 km/h speed limit being tested on one of Alberta’s busiest highways
Alberta is testing a higher speed limit on a portion of Highway 2, raising it to 120 kilometres per hour on a stretch south of Leduc.
The change comes after a recent survey found nearly 70 per cent of respondents supported increasing the speed limits on rural divided highways to 120 km/h.
The Province says it will monitor driver behaviour and safety data during the pilot, working with law enforcement.
“Albertans told us they support 120 km/h speed limits on rural divided highways,” said Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen.
- You might also like:
- A $3.9M home right in the river valley is so close to Fort Edmonton Park
- The May forecast for Alberta is out and 'be prepared for everything'
- Subway just launched a hot new bread and three sandwiches across Canada
At the same time, the Province says it’s cracking down on dangerous driving, with fines for offences like careless driving, excessive speeding, stunting and racing up by 50 per cent. Most other traffic penalties have also increased by 30 per cent.
“Leduc County is supportive of the Alberta government’s decision to increase the speed limit on Highway 2,” said Mayor Tanni Doblanko, adding the province recently improved acceleration and deceleration lanes on nearby overpasses.
The pilot begins today and covers a 22-kilometre stretch south of the Leduc Commercial Vehicle Inspection Station in both directions, with an additional five kilometres on either side also being monitored.
Signs informing drivers of the start and end points and 120 km/h signs have been installed.
Other safety upgrades in the area include interchange improvements, paving work, and new barriers.