At a Glance - Week of May 6
Increasing Speed Limits on Provincial Highways
Alberta is launching a pilot project to raise the speed limit from 110 km/h to 120 km/h on a 22-kilometre section of Highway 2 south of Leduc. The change follows a recent survey in which nearly 70 per cent of respondents supported higher speed limits on rural divided highways. The province says it will work with law enforcement to monitor driver behaviour and complete safety assessments during the trial.
Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors, Devin Dreeshen, stated: “Albertans told us they support 120 km/h speed limits on rural divided highways. Albertans want traffic safety rules that improve the driving experience in our beautiful province.”
New Investments in Continuing Care
The province has announced an investment of over $400 million to support 11 shovel-ready projects, creating more than 1,100 net-new continuing care spaces across the province. This initiative is part of a broader, multi-billion-dollar plan over the next decade, aimed at addressing the needs of a rapidly growing and aging population.
“Albertans deserve to age with dignity in the communities they call home. By expanding continuing care capacity across Alberta, we are creating more spaces, more support and more peace of mind for seniors and families while building a stronger, more sustainable care system for generations to come,” commented Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services, Jason Nixon.
Expanding Alberta's Teacher Workforce
The province is introducing new expedited teaching certification pathways to address growing classroom demands driven by population growth and rising student enrolment. These pathways will allow f inal-year education students, internationally trained teachers, tradespeople, and other skilled professionals to begin teaching sooner in roles aligned with their expertise.
Minister of Education and Childcare, Demetrios Nicholaides, stated: “As classroom needs continue to grow, students need teachers with diverse skills and experience. These new certificates will fast-track qualified professionals into high-need classrooms, uphold strong standards and give school boards greater flexibility to support students locally.”
Further Support for Emissions Reductions
Alberta’s government, through Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA), is investing $91 million from the TIER program to help industries adopt innovative technologies that improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Up to $41 million will fund nine new projects across sectors such as energy, electricity, construction, and manufacturing. These initiatives include smart grid upgrades, hydroelectric and battery storage integration, geothermal energy testing, and advancements in construction materials and processes.
“The TIER fund is helping companies move projects forward that create jobs, strengthen supply chains and help Alberta double responsible energy production. By supporting both proven projects and the next wave of innovation, Alberta is turning good ideas into real world results – building on our province’s long history of responsible energy leadership,” commented Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, Grant Hunter.