Shovels are now expected to hit the ground in the 2022 construction season for the Hwy. 1A-22 interchange project that has been expanded to include four lanes from the interchange to Sunset Boulevard.

Last week, Alberta Transportation minister Rajan Sawhney informed the town the $10 million add-on project has been approved. The total project is now in the $70 to $80 million range.

The expansion of the project will involve a financial commitment from the Town of Cochrane and a private developer. The extent of that commitment has not been disclosed at this point.

Previously to this, then Transportation minister Ric McIver announced the twinning of Hwy. 1A would be continued from where the town's current project ends by the Totem Building to the new interchange, also a $10 million add-on.

The expansion of the twinning of Hwy. 22 to the Sunset Boulevard will allow for a second southbound turning lane and double the traffic flowing out of the Sunset neighbourhood.

At last night's council meeting, Mayor Jeff Genung read the letter received from Transportation minister Rajan Sawhney. He said the town's advocacy has been successful.

"This is a significant achievement for this community. It will go a long way in improving the traffic flow for the Sunset Ridge community."