The repair work on the Whitemud Drive overpass at Anthony Henday Drive in east Edmonton, originally planned to be completed this fall, has been pushed back to 2025. The delay stems from a June 2023 incident where a semi-trailer carrying an excavator crashed into the underside of the overpass, causing significant damage. The collision, which occurred when the semi driver attempted to exit the Henday onto the Whitemud ramp, resulted in broken girders, exposed rebar, and extensive concrete damage. This incident has led to ongoing traffic disruptions due to lane closures on both Whitemud Drive eastbound over the Henday and the offramp.
Drivers have experienced major traffic backups, particularly during rush hour. Kim Palichuk, a regular commuter through the area, describes the traffic flow as significantly impacted, resulting in extended delays. Millan Mondair, another frequent driver, echoes these frustrations, highlighting the hazardous merging conditions and the increased danger during winter months.
In March 2023, the province announced that repairs would begin during the summer with completion anticipated for the fall. However, the completion date has now been pushed back to the end of February 2025, with no explanation for the delay provided by Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors. Drivers express frustration over the extended inconvenience, especially with the approaching winter season.
Despite the delay, the province assures that repair work will commence this summer. A tender for the repairs has closed, and a contract will be awarded shortly. Traffic disruptions are anticipated during the repair process, affecting both the ramp and the bridge itself. Further details regarding traffic impacts and the repair costs will be made public once the contract is awarded.
A 22-year-old driver of the semi-trailer was charged with five offences related to the incident, including improper cargo securing and operating an over-dimensional vehicle without a permit. The driver’s name was not released.
