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EDMONTON — Alberta has raised the speed limit to 120 kilometres per hour on a section of Highway 2 south of Leduc as part of a pilot project aimed at testing higher speeds on rural divided highways.
The change, which took effect Wednesday, applies to a 22-kilometre stretch in both directions south of the Leduc Commercial Vehicle Inspection Station. The province says it will monitor driver behaviour and safety outcomes along the corridor, as well as in areas five kilometres to the north and south.
Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen said the move follows public feedback, with a recent survey showing nearly 70 per cent of respondents supported increasing speed limits on rural divided highways.
“Albertans told us they support 120 km/h speed limits on rural divided highways,” Dreeshen said. “Albertans want traffic safety rules that improve the driving experience in our province.”
The province says safety upgrades have already been completed along the route, including improvements to interchanges, paving and additional barriers. New signage has also been installed to mark the higher speed zone.
Officials say the pilot is being conducted in partnership with law enforcement, with ongoing assessments planned to determine the impact on road safety.
At the same time, the government says it is increasing penalties for dangerous driving. Fines for offences such as careless driving, excessive speeding, stunting and racing have risen by 50 per cent, while most other traffic penalties have increased by 30 per cent.
Leduc County Mayor Tanni Doblanko said the municipality supports the pilot, citing recent infrastructure improvements in the area and the value of collecting data from the trial.
The province is reminding motorists to adjust their speed to road and weather conditions, noting that posted limits are based on ideal driving conditions.
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