Annual traffic controls implemented for the Ponoka Stampede start today in Ponoka and continue until July 4th.
 
The Town in co-operation with Alberta Transportation have 5 measures in place to help ensure pedestrian and vehicle safety during the annual Stampede.

1. A reduced traffic speed limit of 30 km/hr along Highway 53 – Beginning east of Hwy 2A ending at 46 St.

Effective from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and continuing later in the evening as needed during peak traffic hours to accommodate evening events. Please be mindful of posted speed limits. Advanced signage will notify motorists
of the upcoming speed reduction.

2. A temporary 4-Way stop at Highway 53 and 50th Street – Effective 24 hours daily.

Advanced signage will notify motorists of the upcoming 4-way stop on 50 Street and Hwy 53, east and west of the new stop signs. An access road to the Stampede will be open to traffic at that intersection, making it a 4-way stop.

3. Access to Highway 53 will be closed to traffic at 54 Street

54 Street will remain open to local traffic and users of the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex, however access to Hwy 53 will be blocked to traffic at the south end of 54 Street. Advanced signage will notify motorists on 54 Street of the upcoming road block.

4. The Ponoka Fire Department and RCMP will monitor and help direct pedestrian and vehicle traffic as needed 

PFD and RCMP personnel will help direct pedestrian and vehicle traffic at pedestrian crossings on Highway 53 during periods of peak traffic volume as needed to ensure public safety. Pedestrian crossings along Highway 53 will be clearly marked with signage and lighting.

5. A reduced traffic speed limit of 50 km/hr along Highway 2A beginning south of 36 Avenue

Effective from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily or later as needed to accommodate peak traffic hours – from south of 36 Avenue to the intersection of Highways 2A and 53. Advanced signage will notify motorists of the reduced speed limit. Please be mindful of posted speed limits.

Ponoka Mayor Rick Bonnett says "With high volumes of Stampede traffic expected once again, the Town is committed to helping ensure the safety of our residents and Stampede guests with these increased traffic control measures, and we want to do everything possible to support another successful Ponoka Stampede while helping protect public safety".

The 2017 Ponoka Stampede runs June 27th to July 3rd.