The latest update on the upcoming emergency reconstruction work at 137 Avenue and Horseshoe Creek:
The City is finalizing plans with the contractor and project consultants. Pending final environmental approvals, construction is anticipated to begin during the week of August 30.
The project will include installation of a 2,000 mm culvert to accommodate increased water flows. The embankment will be widened to support both the roadway and a new multi-use path, eliminating the need for the existing wooden pedestrian bridge. The reconstructed roadway will also include curbs and gutters.
The City is actively working with the contractor, their design consultant, and their environmental consultant to expedite the processes required to start the reconstruction work on 137 Avenue at Horseshoe Creek.
The Preliminary Schedule is:
We recognize that this work will be disruptive, particularly for residents and commuters who rely on this area. We will continue to share updates as soon as they are available by email and through our Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn accounts.
Since 2024, routine monitoring and post-storm inspections ensured the culvert was operating and the roadway was safe. It was only after recent record-breaking rainfall events that we observed damage significant enough to warrant near-term action.
In June, EPCOR and the City enhanced existing monitoring for erosion along Horseshoe Creek and took steps to protect nearby infrastructure, including installing a bypass to manage increased creek levels and flows by diverting additional flows away from the 137 Avenue crossing.
Despite these efforts, there was extensive damage to the embankment supporting the road, as well as erosion around the pedestrian bridge supports during the significant rainfall events. Repairs are required before the road and bridge can safely reopen. Some emergency work is currently underway. Please avoid this area until further notice.
Work to advance a long-term solution is already underway including:
Because this is an environmentally sensitive area, provincial permits are required. The City and EPCOR will work closely with the Government of Alberta to secure permits as quickly as possible. Tree removal will be required to complete this work. All necessary approvals will be obtained prior to any removal activities.
Next steps for the pedestrian bridge are also in development and may take longer to complete.
For your safety, please stay clear of the work area while we complete this work. Vehicle or pedestrian access beyond the barricades is prohibited.
With the closures of 199 Street and 137 Avenue, Starling Drive is currently experiencing approximately 7,200 vehicle trips each day. Approximately 3,300 of these trips—about 45 percent of the total—are estimated to be shortcutting traffic.
We have heard and understand residents’ concerns about increased traffic volumes, speeds, and safety. We also recognize these pressures may increase further in the fall. The following temporary traffic-calming measures have already been installed:
Curb extensions on Starling Drive (137 Avenue): On the morning of August 19, it was noted by City staff that the curb extensions for traffic calming on 137 Avenue east of Starling Drive were moved into the eastbound drive lane to block traffic.
Given the significance of the movement, the displacement was more than likely intentional by an unknown party. City crews reset the curb extensions to their original position. We have reported this situation to Corporate Security to investigate further and will continue to monitor the area.
I am also working with the City’s Safe Mobility team to advance additional measures, including:
Thank you for your patience as we work to complete these essential repairs and respond to the traffic impacts affecting the neighbourhood. Please continue to share your suggestions, concerns, and feedback with my office at any time.
