City of Edmonton officials are advising motorists of possible delays, as a major roadway just south of downtown and the river will be closed for the next few months.
Starting Monday, May 5, Walterdale Hill will be closed, to make way for continued work on the new Walterdale Bridge project.
Officials suggest drivers should detour using 99 Street/Scona Road, or Groat Road - and Queen Elizabeth Park Road will remain open, so drivers can still use the Walterdale Bridge.
“We realize this will have a major impact on downtown commuters, however it is a necessary part of building the new Walterdale Bridge,” Byron Nicholson with the City of Edmonton said in a press release. “We’re asking everyone’s patience and understanding as we work to replace essential transportation infrastructure.”
In addition, ETS bus routes 9 and 197 will detour onto Saskatchewan Drive and Queen Elizabeth Park Road, a temporary bus stop has been added to the bottom of the hill. More information on changes to transit service can be found online.
Construction on the new bridge began in January 2013, and is expected to be completed by late 2015 – the old bridge is expected to be demolished in early 2016.
Walterdale Hill is expected to open again in August.
