Due to the growth of Grande Prairie over recent years, the volume of traffic utilizing 68th Avenue has increase significantly. As such, the upgrading of the existing two lane roadway to a four lane arterial was completed for this portion of 68th Avenue. The design included an additional right turn lane east of Resources road to complete the Resources road intersection.
The site characteristics posed some constraints on this project, the first being the soil conditions encountered. During this project, the soil conditions varied on a daily basis which required ongoing monitoring to ensure a suitable subgrade was obtained. In addition, a tri-axle geo-grid was utilized to strengthen the road sub-structure. The second constraint encountered was the need to remove the existing roadway. This was necessary in order to lower the entire carriage way so that the tie-in to the adjacent lands was possible.
Some of the project highlights were:
- Design and construction inspection of approx. 500 meters of a four lane divided arterial roadway.
- The extension and replacement of portions of the existing storm water sewer system.
- Construction of a stamped coloured concrete median.
- Installation of new traffic signals at the Poplar Drive intersection.
- Upgrade of the existing traffic signals at the intersection of Resources Road.
- Installation of approximately 400 meters a separate sidewalk.
- Roadway remained open to the public for entirety of the project.
- Successful completion of the project within budgeted parameters.