Massive Super-Heavy Load Moving North to Fort McMurray: Expect Delays
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — A colossal super-heavy load is making its way from Edmonton to Fort McMurray this week. The move is expected to cause significant traffic disruptions along the route which includes Highway 63.
The 8.7 metres wide, 10.2 metres high, 47 metres long, weighs 490,000 kilograms and will be carried by 352 wheels. It is expected to take four days to complete its journey to Suncor, arriving the night of December 13.
Travelling below posted speed limits, the juggernaut will occupy the entire width of the highway, including the shoulder, and will occasionally move against the flow of traffic. Four pilot vehicles and occasional police escorts will accompany the load to ensure public safety.
The planned route includes:
Day 1 (Dec. 10 – Day Move)
- Highway 14 eastbound
- Highway 36 northbound
- Highway 45 eastbound (park at Two Hills Scale)
Day 2 (Dec. 11 – Day Move)
- Highway 45 eastbound
- Highway 36 northbound
- Highway 29 eastbound
- Highway 36 northbound
- Highway 28 westbound
- Highway 63 northbound (park at Boyle)
Day 3 (Dec. 12 – Day Move)
- Highway 63 northbound
- Highway 55 eastbound
- Highway 63 northbound (park at POE staging area)
Day 4 (Dec. 13 – Night Move)
- Highway 63 northbound
- Use ramps in Fort McMurray to avoid overpasses
- Highway 63 northbound (use Suncor ramp to miss overpass)
The load will pause at designated locations to allow traffic to pass, but travellers should expect delays and plan ahead. Motorists should check with Alberta 511 for updates on the position and expected times of travel as weather and other events could impact the scheduled move.