The Alberta government is initiating a test to determine the feasibility of increasing speed limits on a busy highway segment. A specific stretch of Highway 2, known as the QEII, near Edmonton will see a speed limit rise as part of this trial.
Details of the Speed Limit Test
The test will focus on a 22-kilometre section of Highway 2, starting south of Leduc. The new speed limit will be set at 120 km/h, an upgrade from the current limit of 110 km/h. This change will mark the highest posted speed limit in Alberta.
Reasons for the Increase
Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen emphasized that this area is one of the busiest highway sections in the province. Recent safety upgrades, including extended ramps for overpasses in Leduc County and the County of Wetaskiwin, make it an appropriate location for this test.
- New speed limit: 120 km/h
- Test section length: 22 km
- Location: South of Leduc, Alberta
- Previous limit: 110 km/h
- Effective date of speed limit change: April 29, 2026
Public Response and Future Plans
A recent survey indicated that nearly 70% of participants supported increasing the speed limit on rural divided highways to 120 km/h. Dreeshen believes the test will yield valuable data for future considerations regarding speed limit changes on other divided highways.
Monitoring and Safety Measures
The province will assess collision data in the area during the trial. Dreeshen noted that many drivers already exceed the current speed limit, suggesting little change in collision rates is expected. Nonetheless, the province has raised penalties for dangerous driving by 50%, with penalties for various violations increasing by 30%.
- Heightened penalties include:
- Careless driving
- Excessive speeding
- Stunting and racing
While the new 120 km/h limit will apply under ideal road conditions, drivers are advised to slow down during wet, icy, or poor visibility conditions. The monitoring period will include evaluations 5 km north and south of the test stretch, ensuring comprehensive data collection.
