Construction of the Springbank Off-stream reservoir project (SR1) has been accelerated to a 24/7 schedule effective today (May 31) and will continue until late this fall.

In the latest update on the project, project officials explained an estimated 3.5 million cubic metres of fill material will be moved for SR1's construction and requires the movement of 35,000 cubic metres of fill material daily.

"The contractor will need to use all good weather days to complete this work," the update states. "Beginning May 31, 2023, earthwork operations will proceed on a 24-hour schedule, seven days per week, including holidays. This schedule is expected to continue for the duration of the summer and end later in the fall."

Trucks will use the temporary bridge constructed above Highway 22 and should have no further impact on traffic flows through the construction zone beyond the existing reduced speed limit.

Noise, dust, and changes to the landscape will be ongoing as this work is completed. Given the location of this project, overall impacts on the public are anticipated to be minimal. They note area residents will notice significant activity on site.

Throughout the construction season, work will also be advancing on various concrete structures onsite including the diversion Inlet, emergency spillway, debris deflection barrier, service spillway, grade control structure, auxiliary spillway, and two bridges. Concrete pours may be completed at night.

Between 600 and 800 skilled construction personnel will be onsite, including 200-300 earthworks labourers, 150 labourers completing civil works, 150 staff completing subcontractor specializations, and 100 staff and consultants. First Nations and Indigenous groups are part of the project and include personnel in all of these categories.

The workspace will be closed to the general public. Those who choose to enter the site are trespassing and are putting themselves and construction workers at risk. They ask people to respect the work area and obey all construction signage.

SR1 mapFill material from the Diversion Channel (highlighted in yellow), will be excavated, loaded onto trucks, and hauled to the placement area at the dam (highlighted in purple). (Map/AB Gov't)