A mega project is underway just north of Drumheller as construction kicks off on a new Morrin Bridge.
The bridge, spanning the Red Deer River on Highway 27 is being replaced. The site near the Morrin Recreational area is a hive of activity.
“Work began this September and is expected to be completed by fall, 2020,” said Anna Neale, Communications advisor for Alberta Transportation, in an email.
The bridge will be located just north of the existing bridge. Neale explains the first year of construction will mainly focus on the substructure.
The new bridge will be a 140-metre long steel girder bridge with a 12-metre roadway. The existing bridge has a roadway of about 7.3 metres. As a girder bridge, it will not be covered, allowing agricultural machinery to move more easily. The expanded width will also improve functionality.
The bridge will be one lane in each direction and the design will improve sightlines, and also improves the bridge approaches, adding more safety to the site.
There will be site improvements, including a boat launch which will come towards the end of the project. The province and Starland County has worked closely on the planning of the project and site.
Neale reminds drivers to be aware of the construction.
“Drivers are reminded to watch for signs and flag people during construction and to check 511.alberta.ca for traffic information and updates,” she stated.
The estimated value of the project is $20.4 million and has been awarded to Trevcon Enterprises Ltd. of Calgary. The existing Bridge is at the end of its service life.
