The province is moving ahead with plans to twin Highway 3 between Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

The UCP government is proceeding with a request for proposals for the first of eight sections of well-travelled roadway. 

"Alberta is focused on visionary province and nation-building projects that support local businesses, secure people's jobs and strengthen communities, says Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. "Our economy relies on our highway network and the ability to connect Alberta to markets outside the province."

"This will make travel safer, quicker and easier for everyone across southern Alberta. Shipping what we make has been a big problem for our province," says Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen. "Expanding Highway 3 will make it a lot easier for farmers and businesses here to get their products to buyers whether they live in Alberta or anywhere in the world."

"Highway 3 Twinning Development Association is thrilled that the Government of Alberta sees the importance of this corridor for provincial, national, and international trade," Bill Chapman, president, Highway 3 Twinning Development Association. "As a primary route for the transport of goods and services, the twinning of Highway3 is vital for our communities in industry, agri-business, recreation and tourism. The most efficient and safest route is a twinned route."

The Highway 3 twinning project is being done in phases to maintain cost effectiveness and limit disruption to the people who live and work along the route.

Phase 1: 46 kilometres - A request for proposals has been issued to the shortlisted design build proponents to twin Highway 3 between Taber and Burdett. Construction is expected to start in 2023.

Phase 2: 10 kilometres - Highway 3X/Coleman Bypass. Functional planning studies have been completed and detailed engineering design will begin in spring 2023.

Phase 3: 15 kilometres - East of Seven Persons to Medicine Hat. Functional planning studies have been completed and detailed engineering design will begin in spring 2023.

Phase 4: 47 kilometres - Blairmore to east of Highway 6 at Pincher Creek. Functional planning studies have been completed and detailed engineering design will begin in 2023.

Phase 5: 28 kilometres - East of Bow Island to east of Seven Persons. Functional planning studies have been completed and detailed engineering design will begin in summer 2023.

Phase 6: 23 kilometres - East of Burdett to east of Bow Island. A functional planning study has been completed and the province will continue to consult with the Town of Bow Island and other stakeholders in order to finalize the alignment.

Phase 7: 38 kilometres - Pincher Creek to west of Fort Macleod. A functional planning study through Piikani Nation is underway and will continue for some time.

Phase 8: Eight kilometres - Alberta-B.C. border to Highway 3X. Continued engagement with B.C. is necessary to consider alignment with improvements being planned through the B.C. portion.