The Alberta Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association (ARHCA) is urging municipalities across the province to temporarily halt new road construction projects, allowing the provincial government to redirect resources toward repairing what it describes as 'deteriorating' highways. The call comes as a recent report highlights a growing infrastructure deficit, with many of Alberta’s major highways falling into disrepair due to insufficient funding.
ARHCA’s Plea for a Pause
In a letter sent to municipal leaders, ARHCA president John MacDonald argued that the province is struggling to keep up with maintenance on existing roads while municipalities continue to push for new projects. 'We need to let the province catch up on repairing the highways that are already crumbling,' MacDonald said. 'Every dollar spent on a new municipal road is a dollar that could be used to fix a provincial highway that is unsafe for drivers.'
The association’s report, released earlier this month, estimates that Alberta requires an additional $1.5 billion annually to bring its highway network up to acceptable standards. Currently, the province spends about $800 million per year on highway maintenance, but the report claims that at least $2.3 billion is needed to address the backlog of repairs and prevent further deterioration.
Deteriorating Conditions on Key Routes
Highway 63, a critical route connecting Fort McMurray to the rest of the province, has been a particular focus of concern. In June 2026, about 80 Fort McMurray residents took it upon themselves to patch potholes on the highway, highlighting the frustration of local communities. 'The condition of Highway 63 is unacceptable,' said Fort McMurray Mayor Sandy Bowman. 'We have residents filling potholes themselves because the province hasn’t done enough.'
The ARHCA’s report also cites deteriorating conditions on Highway 2, Highway 16, and Highway 1, which are vital for both commuters and the province’s resource industries. 'These highways are the backbone of our economy,' MacDonald noted. 'If we don’t invest now, the cost of repairs will only increase, and the safety risks will grow.'
Municipal Pushback
However, not all municipalities are receptive to the ARHCA’s request. The Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA) argues that new road projects are essential for accommodating population growth and economic development. 'We can’t simply stop building roads,' said AUMA president Tanya Thorn. 'Our communities need infrastructure to support new housing, businesses, and services. The province needs to find a way to fund both new construction and maintenance.'
The Alberta government has acknowledged the funding shortfall but has not committed to increasing spending. In a statement, Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen said the province is 'exploring innovative funding mechanisms' but did not provide specifics. 'We understand the concerns raised by the ARHCA and are working to address them,' Dreeshen said. 'However, we must balance the need for repairs with other priorities, including healthcare and education.'
Economic and Safety Implications
The ARHCA warns that failing to repair highways could have serious economic consequences. Poor road conditions increase vehicle operating costs, delay freight shipments, and deter investment. 'When companies see crumbling highways, they think twice about setting up shop in Alberta,' MacDonald said. 'This is about more than just smooth pavement; it’s about our economic competitiveness.'
Safety is another major concern. The report notes that the number of collisions caused by poor road conditions has increased by 15% over the past five years. 'Every pothole is a potential accident waiting to happen,' said MacDonald. 'We’re urging municipalities and the province to work together to prioritize safety over new projects.'
Looking Ahead
The ARHCA plans to meet with municipal leaders and provincial officials in the coming weeks to discuss its proposal. While a full moratorium on new municipal road projects is unlikely, the association hopes to at least shift some funding toward maintenance. 'We’re not asking for a complete stop,' MacDonald clarified. 'We’re asking for a temporary pause to allow the province to catch up. Once the highways are in better shape, we can resume new construction with a stronger foundation.'
