FORT McMURRAY — The Fort Chipewyan Winter Road is set to open at noon Saturday, giving residents ground access just in time for last minute Christmas shopping and holiday travel.
The road will initially be open to light vehicles weighing less than 5,000 kilograms. Officials say drivers should expect rough sections and active crews, and recommend high clearance four wheel drive vehicles while urging motorists to drive to conditions and obey posted signage.
Weight limits are expected to increase as ice conditions improve. Any changes will be announced, and vehicles exceeding posted limits could face significant fines and penalties.
With the road opening, free personal air shipping for community members through McMurray Aviation will end. Shipments already in progress will still be completed.
Authorities are also warning drivers to slow down on the winter road. Speed limits are generally 50 kilometres per hour, dropping to 15 kilometres per hour at river crossings. Speeding is considered especially dangerous in the delta area, where fast moving vehicles can create pressure waves under the ice, damaging the road surface.
Drivers heading north are advised of construction work on Highway 63 near the winter road south gate, where crews are inspecting and repairing a cavity beneath the roadway. Reduced speeds and lane restrictions are expected for up to seven days.
Meanwhile, the La Loche Winter Trail remains closed as crews wait for safe ice thickness on the Christina River crossing to complete construction.
Updates and safety information are available through the Winter Road Hotline and on the municipality’s website.
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