Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Highway 3X project?
The Highway 3X project aims to develop an alternate route for travel between Sentinel and Blairmore. This secondary route will support the diversion of large trucks and hazardous goods, help to reduce travel times and congestion, and enhance safety within the community. The new highway alignment will maintain connectivity to the existing highway corridor and local businesses / attractions.
Will the truck route affect access to Coleman?
Access to the town will be maintained over the course of construction, and through intersections / interchanges connecting to the existing highway at both ends of the new highway alignment once construction is complete. New signage will also be installed as part of this project to promote existing businesses and attractions within the community of Coleman.
How long is the design process expected to take?
At this time, construction has not yet been funded. However, cost estimating data provided during the preliminary and detailed design phases of this project will be reviewed by the Government of Alberta when planning and budgeting for construction.

Design work on this project is currently anticipated to continue into 2028, and further information regarding tendering and construction timelines will be shared with the public as it becomes available.

What is happening with the Lost Lemon Campground?
Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors has purchased this campground, and it is being leased to a campground operator who will maintain operations until such time as the highway construction proceeds.
Will there be impacts to the existing highway during construction?

Access to the existing highway will be maintained at all times, however, speed limit reductions and periodic delays are expected over the course of construction. Additional details will be shared as they become available, and members of the public are advised to check 511 Alberta for up-to-date traffic and road condition information.

What are the environmental considerations?
Thorough environmental assessments are being conducted during project design to minimize impacts on local ecosystems, including water bodies, bird and wildlife habitats and movements, vegetation, wetlands, and fisheries.
When is construction of the truck route expected to begin?

Construction is currently not funded. Through the design process, the costs and overall budget for the project will be evaluated. Once the Alberta Government has confirmed funding for construction, timelines for tendering and construction will be developed and shared with the Public.

What safety measures will be implemented on the truck route?
The truck route will be designed with modern safety features including appropriate signage, lighting, and clear delineation between local and through-traffic lanes. Roadside barriers will be incorporated at bridge structures and other roadway hazards.
How will wildlife movements be considered and accommodated?
Dedicated wildlife crossing structures are being designed at key locations along the highway, and proposed bridge structures will be designed to accommodate wildlife crossing with appropriate clearances. The project will also include wildlife fencing to keep wildlife away from the highway and directed towards appropriate crossing locations.