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County of Minburn Resident Wants Safety Concerns Addressed

County of Minburn Resident Wants Safety Concerns Addressed Before Tragedy Happens

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

A County of Minburn resident is hoping safety concerns at the intersection of Highway 881 and Highway 619 are addressed before a tragedy happens.

Ron Bourgeault, who farms a quarter section near Buffalo Coulee, said there have been numerous accidents at that location and wants Alberta Transportation to remedy the situation. “It’s been treacherous since they built it. I’ve towed vehicles every which way from there over the last 40 years.”

All types of vehicles, including cattle liners and grain trucks that he has pulled out of the ditch and up the hill. Because there is a 90 degree turn, it makes navigating even more challenging. Inclement weather has also played a factor in some of the accidents.

Intersection facing west showing barricades which were recently placed at the intersection.

(Joey Zafziger/Submitted Photo)

“Numerous ones, (accidents) could have been casualties. But we’re just lucky it hasn’t happened. I don’t know if they’re waiting for one or not, but I’ve pulled semi’s out of there and pulled them up the hill, but it’s dangerous.”

The guard rail has been taken out several times, including the evening of Jan. 12. In response to that barricades were put up. Bourgeault said they moved a flashing light to the top the hill, and while that was an improvement, the flashing light hasn’t been working at night time because it’s solar powered.

He said there is a large oilfield site nearby and said the flashing light, along with street lights could be powered. The power pole is less than quarter mile away, so could they could trench underground to have power for street lights.”

Mike Fundytus, Director of Protective Services for the County of Minburn told council during a report on Jan. 16 that there have been six accidents since November at the intersection which is located 12 miles south of Mannville.

Norm De Wet, Director of Operations for the County of Minburn, said Alberta Transportation has agreed to review the request for street lights at that intersection.

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