Traffic issues addressed in a roundabout way

Chris Davis photo

The intersection of Highway 6, Hewetson Avenue, and Highway 507 is being transformed into a traffic circle, in an attempt to alleviate congestion problems.  The plan has met with some opposition in Pincher Creek. Some citizens would prefer the intersection to remain the way it was, some suggested a four-way stop be introduced, some were in favour of traffic lights instead, and some were in favour of the solution now being adopted.


Alberta Transportation rejected the idea of traffic lights or a four-way stop and hired ISL Engineering to conduct a study of the intersection and nearby roadways, resulting in the traffic circle plan.  According to ISL the new intersection will be safer for pedestrians, increase traffic flow, and solve the congestion problem at the intersection for 20 or more years.
Several detours have been established to circumvent the intersection during construction, including a new gravel road connecting Bev McLachlin Drive with Highway 6.
The traffic circle was approved by town council on March 22, 2010, to "enhance the overall operations and safety of the intersection well into the future as the town and adjacent area grows."

ISL Engineering illustration of projected traffic circle
click to visit relevant Town Council minutes