An age old plea for an overpass at the Kitscoty intersection with Highway 16 is echoing in the wake of a fatality at that highway crossing. However, Transport Minister Devin Dreeshen, says an overpass could be out for tender in the next three years.
The family of the late Ethan Ross who passed away at age 22, is facing their loss which has been compounded by a video on social media recorded at the time his vehicle was involved in a collision with a semi at the intersection of Highway 16 and 897 near Kitscoty.
“The intersection where Ethan lost his life has sadly taken many other lives as well. Thousands if not more have begged for an overpass to be put in to correct the issues and save lives. We need more awareness and help in contacting the correct people to make changes happen,” says Jodie Sharp, supportive neighbour.
The collision which took the life of Ethan happened on Aug. 14.
Alberta Transport stats for collisions at the intersection for the period 2015 to 2024 show:
- Collisions – 24
- Fatalities – 0
- Injuries – 13
- Property collisions – 11
Status of Overpass
Dreeshen says a planning study was done in 2019 for a future interchange. In an email to MyLloydminsterNow, the minister says, “The design work could begin in 2026, and the project could be ready to tender for construction in 2028.”
Dreeshen adds it “considers multiple variables in determining if and when to upgrade highway intersections to full interchanges including safety, level of service, annual average daily traffic (AADT) figures, future growth, and economic benefits.”
GoFundme
A GoFundMe page for Ethan’s funeral expenses is available online.
