Alberta to pilot 120 km/h speed limits on select rural highways | Daily Hive

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What some drivers may already treat as the unofficial speed limit on the QEII could soon be posted on Alberta highways, with the province preparing to pilot 120 kilometres per hour speed limits on select rural highways.

The Alberta government plans to pilot higher speed limits next year, following public consultation in the fall on modernizing speed limits in the province.

An online survey ran between Nov. 7 and Dec. 12 and received 59,400 responses. According to the province, 68 per cent of respondents supported increasing speed limits on rural divided highways from 110 to 120 kilometres an hour.

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“It’s clear that Albertans are ready for modern, common-sense rules that better reflect how our roads are built and how people actually drive,” said Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen.

“Alberta’s divided highways were engineered to safely handle 120 kilometres per hour, and advances in vehicle safety and road design make that even more practical today.”

The survey also found more than 90 per cent of respondents supported restricting commercial trucks from specific lanes on major highways. Dreeshen said the feedback aligns with concerns raised by industry groups, municipalities and drivers about traffic flow and safety.

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The controlled mini-trial of the increased limit will happen on select rural divided highways, paired with strong monitoring and safety evaluation. “This approach ensures that any future decisions are based on real-world data, local feedback and a clear commitment to keeping our roads safe,” Dreeshen noted.

What do you think about raising the speed limit on Alberta highways? Let us know in the comments.