Submitted
The Town of Ponoka, in cooperation with Alberta Transportation, is once again implementing its annual traffic control plan to help ensure pedestrian and vehicle safety during the 2018 Ponoka Stampede.
The following traffic control measures will be in effect from June 25 to July 4, states a release from the Town of Ponoka.
There are five elements to this plan:
• A reduced traffic speed limit of 30 km/hr along Highway 53 – Beginning east of Hwy 2A ending at 46 Street from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and continuing until later in the evening as needed during peak traffic hours to accommodate evening events.
• A reduced traffic speed limit of 50 km/hr along Highway 2A – From 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily or later as needed to accommodate peak traffic hours – beginning south of 36 Avenue to the intersection of Highways 2A and 53.
• A temporary Four-Way Stop at Highway 53 and 50 Street – Effective 24 hours daily. Advanced signage will notify motorists of the upcoming 4-way stop on 50 St. and Hwy 53, east and west of the stop signs. An access road to the Stampede will be open to traffic at that intersection, making it a Four-way stop.
• Access to Highway 53 will be closed to traffic at 54 Street – The road will remain open to local traffic and users of the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex, however access to Hwy 53 will be blocked to traffic at the south end of 54 Street.
• RCMP will monitor and help direct pedestrian and vehicle traffic as needed – Mounties will help direct pedestrian and vehicle traffic at pedestrian crossings on Highway 53 during peak traffic volume periods as needed to ensure public safety.
Pedestrian crossings along Highway 53 will be clearly marked with signage and lighting.
“With high volumes of Stampede traffic expected once again, the Town is committed to helping ensure the safety of our residents and Stampede guests each year with these increased traffic control measures,” says Mayor Rick Bonnett. “We want to do everything possible to support another successful Ponoka Stampede while helping protect public safety.”
Ponoka residents are encouraged to consider alternate routes to avoid heavy traffic flows during Stampede week. Please be mindful of temporary traffic controls and signage along Hwy 53 and 50 Street, and watch for pedestrians during Stampede week.
If you have questions, please call 403-783-0159.