With mounting frustration shared on Cochrane social media platforms lately over the alleged inefficiency of the intersection at Hwy 22 and Hwy 1A, the Eagle checked in with Rick Deans, senior manager of infrastructure for the town, on the status of the lights — which are under the jurisdiction of Alberta Transportation.
“Town administration recently met with officials from Alberta Transportation to discuss the highway corridors in Cochrane and the growth pressures on these roadways,” explained Deans.
“Some of the focus was on establishing a more collaborative approach to discussing the short and long-term needs of our community as well as that of Alberta Transportation…It was agreed that more understanding from the various levels of government will be a positive step in recognizing the growth challenges in this corridor and a commitment to work together to design possible solutions to these pressures.”
Deans said the intersection has been a topic of discussion since 1998 — when the province began a twinning design for Hwy 1A and it was recognized this would mean the intersection would require a redevelopment.
“Traffic movement and roadway infrastructure is a priority for both council and administration.”
There is no timeline on when changes would be made to the intersection at this time.
“The highway is the jurisdiction of the province, so at this time we continue to assume that any improvements would be (their) financial responsibility,” said Deans, with respect to associated costs.
Concerned citizens are encouraged to write a letter or email to Banff-Cochrane MLA Ron Casey: 102 721 Main Street, Canmore, Alta., T1W 0B9; [email protected] or call toll free 1-866-760-8281.
