Whitecourt launches summer construction season with major infrastructure upgrades

By Haylee Winger
Whitecourt’s summer construction season is in full swing, with several infrastructure projects
underway across the community. These initiatives include sewer line replacement, road
resurfacing, pathway enhancements, and various smaller-scale improvements—all aimed at
maintaining and upgrading essential town services.
One of the major projects currently in progress is the 47 Street Sewer Line Replacement, which
began on July 1 and is scheduled to continue until August 8. The work involves replacing 160
metres of aging sewer pipe to restore proper gravity flow and improve the performance of the
town’s sewer collection system. Crews are operating daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and
eastbound traffic on 49 Avenue has been reduced to a single lane near the intersection of 49
Avenue and 47 Street. Sidewalks in the area remain open for pedestrians.
As part of the 2025 Street Improvement Program, resurfacing of a section of 42 Avenue and the
traffic circle on Sunset Boulevard was completed between July 1 and July 3. During
construction, 42 Avenue south of Highway 43 was closed to all traffic, and traffic along Sunset
Boulevard was limited to a single lane with a flag person managing flow. Although sidewalk
access remained open, drivers were advised to use alternate routes through the hilltop area.
Another phase of the street improvement program began on Dahl Drive, between 52 Avenue and
55 Avenue, and is expected to continue until July 18. This work has reduced traffic to a single
lane, with a flag person directing vehicles at intersections. Milling and paving operations are
taking place during nighttime hours to minimize traffic disruptions throughout the day.
Work also began on July 4 to enhance pedestrian pathways in Festival Park, focusing on the
pond-side pathway and access to 57 Avenue. These improvements are scheduled to be completed
by July 17. While pedestrian access has been temporarily interrupted in some areas, the town has
ensured that access to the River Slides remains available.
In addition to the larger projects, several miscellaneous construction activities took place
throughout the community between July 1 and July 6. These included temporary lane closures
managed by flag personnel and signage in affected areas.
Residents are reminded to continue exercising caution near construction zones, follow posted
signage, and plan alternate routes where necessary.