Drivers in Red Deer should prepare for a major road closure this weekend as the City of Red Deer begins the next phase of its bridge replacement project. Starting the evening of April 12, 2026, Gaetz Avenue will be fully closed to traffic between 45 Street and 43 Street to allow for the demolition of an aging bridge and the installation of a temporary structure.
The current bridge, which spans Waskasoo Creek, was originally built in 1912 and later widened in 1957. City officials report that the structure is in poor condition and must be removed to ensure public safety. Because the bridge cannot be taken down in sections, a complete closure of the road is necessary for the demolition and the setup of the temporary replacement. This closure is expected to last for approximately four weeks, with work finishing around May 8, 2026.
Motorists travelling south on Gaetz Avenue are encouraged to plan ahead and use Taylor Drive via Ross Street as a detour to avoid potential traffic delays. While the road will be closed to through traffic, the city confirmed that access to local businesses will remain open throughout the project. The Creekside Professional Centre can be reached via 43 Street, and Gaetz Avenue south of Waskasoo Creek will be temporarily converted to two-way traffic to accommodate local access.
This work is part of a larger $10 million project that began earlier this year in February. Once finished, the new bridge will feature a 16-metre single span design raised by approximately 0.5 metres to better handle water levels during major flood events. The overall project, which also includes replacing underground utility lines and streetlights, is expected to be complete by the end of November 2026.
According to Alberta Transportation, the project is a necessary investment in local infrastructure to ensure the continued safety and reliability of the area’s road network. Information regarding major construction projects across the province can be tracked through the government’s project database.
