Okotoks, AB: At the August 17 regular meeting, Council approved a motion for administration to send a letter to the Province supporting median closures on Highway 2 at 306 and 370 avenues.
The Town would also support an interim median closure on Highway 2 at 338 Avenue with Alberta Transportation’s commitment to construct an interchange in the near future, a funding commitment to the interchange functional plan, acknowledgment of impacts to Okotoks and a consideration of future prioritization of the interchange.
“While Okotoks appreciates Alberta Transportation’s decision to close the intersection at 306 and the medians at 338 and 370 avenues for safety reasons, the intersection at 338 Avenue is critical for access and economic viability,” said CAO Elaine Vincent. “It will require the Town to move up our capital plan to ensure there are no long-term negative impacts of the closure. Working in partnership with our MLA, Foothills County and Alberta Transportation will be critical to advance the timing and funding of this intersection,” said Vincent.
Also included in the letter will be a request to defer consideration of Foothills County’s recent request for signals on Highway 2A at 306 Avenue until Okotoks has had the opportunity to properly assess and provide comment.
The proposed signal lights, full closure impacts of 306 Avenue at Highway 2A and the Highway 2A corridor will be discussed further at an upcoming Okotoks/Foothills County Inter-municipal Committee meeting.