As spring arrives, the Town of Okotoks is gearing up for a busy construction season, with several key projects underway to support community growth, upgrade aging infrastructure and enhance community spaces.
One of the biggest projects underway is the Foothills Okotoks Regional Water Project, currently taking place in the Sheep River Valley. This important work is all about securing a sustainable water supply for our community, now and in the future. Crews are tying in a new watermain, which requires heavy equipment and drilling in select areas. Construction began earlier this month and is expected to continue through June 30, depending on weather and equipment availability.
“We know this is a well-loved area, and we appreciate the community’s patience as we complete this critical work,” said Jeremy Huet, operations & utilities director for the Town of Okotoks. “We understand that temporary disruptions of this nature can be challenging to navigate, but we’re also looking forward to the positive impacts this project will have on our community for years to come.”
Another area of focus for the Regional Water Project is North Railway Street, where a full road closure is expected between 32nd Street East and 40 Street East from March 31 to April 22. Detours will be in place 24/7 and traffic from the east will be detoured north along 48 Street East to Milligan Drive. The closure will prevent vehicle access to several local amenities, including:
- Bill Robertson Park, including the pump track, soccer fields, ball diamond, volleyball court and accessible playground (parking available at the Okotoks Operations Centre)
- Tourmaline and Conrad Fields
- Seaman Stadium parking lot from North Railway Street (access via Don Seaman Way on 32nd Street E)
In addition, the Town is preparing to launch Phase One of the Downtown Improvements Project along North Railway Street this spring. Watch for temporary road closures and detour signage.
“This project is all about creating a more welcoming and connected downtown — with inviting public spaces and improved accessibility,” said Jeff Greene, director of community growth & identity. “The upgrades will also help local businesses thrive and support long term economic growth in Okotoks."
Phase One of the project includes:
- Replacing aging sewer and water lines
- Burying overhead power lines
- Installing a roundabout at Lineham Avenue and North Railway Street to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety
- Enhancing Triangle and Pisttoo Park
Your patience during this busy construction season is greatly appreciated as we invest in improvements that will benefit our community well into the future.
All project timelines are subject to change due to weather conditions, contractor schedules, and equipment availability.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed, and to plan ahead for potential delays or detours. For construction updates, maps and project details, visit shapeourtown.okotoks.ca/construction.