New bridge being built over Oldman River in Lethbridge

LETHBRIDGE, ALTA. — The Government of Alberta is building a new bridge on Highway 3 over the Oldman River in Lethbridge, Alta.

The old eastbound two-lane, two-way bridge was built in 1947 and will be replaced to respond to population and commercial transportation needs, explains a release. 

A westbound bridge was built in 1966 with two lanes eastbound and two lanes westbound.

“The Highway 3 bridge has been used by Lethbridge commuters for many years. With safety at top of mind, we are pleased the Alberta government is investing in these long-awaited improvements,” City of Lethbridge Mayor Chris Spearman said in a statement.  

“Our government is committed to building strong, sustainable infrastructure across the province. This new long-awaited bridge puts safety first while ensuring Lethbridge commuters spend less time in traffic and more time with their family and community,” added Alberta Minister of Transportation Brian Mason.

The Alberta government rehabilitated the bridge in 2018 to give it another 10 to 15 years of service live while work begins on a new bridge, which will have additional features such as a pedestrian pathway.

Planning, design, environmental permits, acquiring rights of way and consultation with First Nations are the next stages in the project.