Nov. 3, 1993: Whitemud Drive opens to traffic in south Edmonton
Opening ended 3½ years of frustration for drivers who endured roadblocks and detours during construction
In anticipation of the opening of the newest section of Whitemud Drive 24 years ago, hundreds of cars lined up, some for two hours, to cruise the freshly-paved asphalt.
When the barricades were removed, cars began streaming over the new roadway.
- Whitemud Drive widening to slow traffic for two years
- Drivers rejoice — last section of Edmonton's Anthony Henday Drive opens
Construction on the section had taken 3½ years, during which motorists had been frustrated by detours and delays.
Once completed, Whitemud Drive offered quicker access between southeast and west Edmonton, but some drivers felt the 80 km/h speed limit was too low.
One driver pointed out the speed limit on Calgary's Deerfoot Trail was 100 km/h.
However, city planners said they had to consider the large number of ramps feeding onto the Whitemud, but might consider raising the limit to 90 km/h.
Today the limit remains 80 km/h.
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