Driving south from Calgary on Highway 2, motorists will notice the speed limit gradually decreasing from 110 kilometers per hour to 70, then 50, and finally 30 as they approach a temporary school zone in Nanton, Alberta. This unique stretch of highway divides the town and poses challenges for both residents and drivers who do not adhere to the speed limits.
Mayor Jennifer Handley of Nanton has expressed concerns about drivers speeding through the town and others going the wrong way due to the highway splitting into two directions. She estimates at least one driver goes the wrong way daily, partially attributing the confusion to drivers from British Columbia.
Furthermore, heavy trucks passing through, using engine retarder brakes to slow down, contribute to noise disturbances in towns like Nanton and Claresholm. In Claresholm, a resident raised concerns about the noise from brakes and the impact of traffic on their sleep and overall quality of life.
While highways in Alberta are crucial for businesses and tourism, they also present safety concerns. Nanton has one peace officer dedicated to handling traffic violations, described by Handley as strict in enforcing speed limits. Claresholm recently hired a peace officer to crack down on speeders and is the only town with a traffic light on Highway 2 up to Edmonton.
Discussions are ongoing in Nanton about installing a traffic light near the candy shop to address traffic and pedestrian safety concerns. Neil Smith, the town’s chief administrative officer, emphasized the need for a traffic light due to the high volume of pedestrians and speeding drivers.
In Claresholm, businesses like Roy’s Place benefit from direct highway access, attracting a diverse clientele, including truckers and tourists. The general manager of the Candy Store in Nanton highlighted the challenge of drawing visitors further into town beyond the highway, emphasizing the need for appropriate signage.
The conversation about bypassing highways in towns like Fort Macleod continues, with construction set to begin on the realignment of Highway 3. While some support bypasses to enhance safety and traffic flow, others express concerns about the potential impact on local businesses and the high costs involved.
Overall, the communities along these highways are navigating the balance between economic benefits and safety considerations, with various stakeholders weighing in on the best path forward.