Existing conditions see 58th Street connect with Highway 2 at an at-grade intersection where all turning movements are currently permitted. While few vehicles utilize this roadway to access either the Town or the Highway (depending upon the direction) the route does provide connectivity to businesses and homes north of Highway 2.
Alberta Transportation is pursuing the closure of this intersection so as to increase the safety of the Highway 2. All traffic currently utilizing this intersection (as well as any additional traffic forecast into the future) would be required to utilize Highway 12 to the south or Highway 2A to the north.
The 20,000 population horizon traffic conditions in the Town and the travel demand patterns were found to not be significantly altered with or without consideration of a connection to Highway 2 at 58th Street. Although it certainly introduces an impedance for traffic wishing to cross Highway 2, the maintenance of this connection and/or the development of an interchange at this location are not vital to the success of the Town road network at the 20,000 population horizon. The maintenance of this connection and/or the development of an interchange at this location are not vital to the success of the Town road network at the 20,000 population horizon.
However, it is recommended that the Town and Alberta Transportation pursue a long term goal of incorporating a grade separation over Highway 2 at this location, but without access to or from Highway 2 itself. The need for this interchange would also be reduced if a slip ramp was to be provided to the proposed highway commercial development zone adjacent to Highway 2 between 58th Street and Highway 2A.
It is noted that both the concept of an interchange and a slip ramp are contrary to current Alberta Transportation policy and negotiations between the Town and AT would be necessary at such time as these improvements are contemplated.