Cochrane is experiencing some short-term pain for long-term gain in traffic flow and infrastructure upgrades.

Residents are being asked to take voluntary water conservation measures from Sept. 3 to 6 to help retain reservoir levels while a tie-in of a significant water main is completed in East Cochrane.

This includes:

  • Water flower beds and vegetable gardens using a watering can or hose nozzle with trigger control;
  • Avoid using sprinklers; and
  • Refrain from washing vehicles, sidewalks, windows, or siding.

A town release states these measures will contribute to conserving water and safeguarding Cochrane’s water supply. 

construction 2Typically one of the busiest downtown corridors, the traffic has been hushed by the temporary closure of the 1st and Centre Ave. intersection.
construction 3Those requiring access to the main post office and Stitching Corner of 1st St. E. are able to use a temporary access from the northbound lane of  Centre Ave. located just before the closed intersection.
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construction 4There's been plenty of congestion all day long on Railway St. with the changes in traffic flow.

The major Centre Ave. - 1st St. intersection is now closed as work continues on underground utility improvements in East Cochrane. It had originally been anticipated to start after the August Long Weekend.

Drew Hyndman, executive director of Development & Infrastructure Services, acknowledges the effects of the adjusted intersection closure date, but says it couldn't be helped.

“While our initial intention was to ensure readiness before school, unforeseen challenges arose requiring additional work to complete the stormwater pipeline installation along 1st St. E," states Drew Hyndman, in a news release. "Substantial progress has been achieved over the summer and improvements to the roadway will benefit the community for years to come.”

Businesses along the corridor will remain open through the construction.

Adding to the traffic turmoil on one of the busiest weekends of the year is paving scheduled on Hwy. 1A to bring that project closer to completion.

"Detour routes and clearly marked signage will be in place to assist residents and visitors in navigating around the temporary closure," states the release. "Weather-dependent schedules may lead to changes, and everyone is kindly asked to follow posted detours and instructions provided by flaggers."

The town has been asked to clarify how much of Hwy. 1A will be impacted by the paving but had not responded by this writing.

"While acknowledging potential route impacts, motorists are encouraged to consider alternate routes to access Historic Downtown, the Labour Day Parade, and the Cochrane Lions Rodeo," states the release. "Entry from South Cochrane over the Jack Tennant Memorial Bridge or via Griffin Road off Highway 22 are recommended alternatives."

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