Work begins on Regina’s Albert Street North overpass

WATCH: Crews have begun the two-year project to replace the Albert St North overpass. Sierra D’Souza Butts reports.

Work on upgrading Regina’s Albert Street North overpass began Monday – as traffic restrictions across the southbound lanes were put in place.

The estimated $17.6 million project will include the demolition and rebuilding of both overpasses to modernize the aging infrastructure and reduce potential damage from over sized vehicles passing through the area.

“It’s been 50 years now since they were built. They are both deteriorated to the point and are required for replacement,” explained Nigora Yulyakshieva, manager for Regina’s roadway preservation.

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The southbound overpass will be replaced in 2025 while work on the northbound overpass will begin in March of 2026.

The project is slated to be wrapped by October of that year.

Demolition of the southbound bridge is set to begin March 28 at 8 p.m. and will continue overnight. Construction will begin on Monday, March 31.

“We’re doing this project, so we provide safety for the public,” Yulyakshieva explained.

“We will be replacing everything. The superstructure, it’s above the foundation so it will be brand new to the overpasses. Also, the benefits, we will raise the superstructure so it will not get damaged again by over-height vehicles.”

Throughout the duration of construction, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction across the northbound lanes.

“The northwest loop ramp will also be closed throughout 2025, but detours with signage will be in place to provide vehicles with an alternate route,” the city stated in a news release.

“Lane closures on Ring Road will occur intermittently during the project. The city will be utilizing night and weekend work for full Ring Road closures to minimize daytime traffic disruptions. These restrictions will ensure the safety of drivers and workers in the construction zone. The City will provide advance notice of all traffic restrictions as work progresses.”

On March 25, the city will also be hosting a meeting with business owners who may potentially be impacted by traffic restrictions to receive feedback about the ongoing project.