Athabasca County, in partnership with Alberta-Pacific Forest Industries Inc. (Al-Pac), is pleased to announce that it has received Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP) funding from the Government of Alberta for the Al-Pac Bridge repair project. This investment will support critical rehabilitation work and is expected to extend the bridge’s lifespan an additional 20 years.
The Al-Pac Bridge, which is located on Township Road 690 and Range Road 202A, and is also known as the Athabasca River Bridge, was originally constructed as part of the province’s $1.2 billion commitment to the development of the pulp mill originally approved in December 1990. Initial signs of wear on the roadway were identified in 2020, providing an opportunity to plan important upgrades that will enhance the safety and efficiency of this vital transportation corridor.
The total project cost for the Al-Pac Bridge repair is $1.9 million dollars. The County has been awarded $975,000 from Alberta’s government in STIP grant funding, with Al-Pac contributing an additional $600,000 toward the project. Athabasca County will provide the remaining portion of $325,000.
“Alberta’s government is proud to support Athabasca County and Al-Pac in repairing this critical bridge and keeping a vital transportation corridor open for industry and rural communities. Investments like this improve safety for families and workers, while ensuring northern Alberta remains open for business for decades.”
Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation of Economic Corridors
“These upgrades are going to make a real difference to the countless people who rely on the Al-Pac Bridge every day. Investments like this will benefit not only those who work at Al-Pac, but also everyone in our community who works in the supply network that supports the mill. This project shows our government is committed to keeping and creating jobs in northern Alberta for years to come.”
Glenn van Dijken, MLA for Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock
“Securing this STIP funding is a significant success for Athabasca County and a strong validation of the importance of the Al-Pac Bridge to our region. This investment, combined with Al-Pac’s contribution, will extend the life of this critical asset, support the safe movement of people and goods, and help protect the economic wellbeing of our communities for many years to come.”
Tracy Holland, Athabasca County Reeve
“We are thankful to the Government of Alberta and Athabasca County for supporting repairs to the Athabasca River Bridge. This bridge is a vital piece of transportation infrastructure for our operations, our team members, the businesses that supply goods and services to our mill site, and local communities. Al-Pac values strong community relationships, and our contribution to the project reflects our commitment to supporting long-term economic sustainability in the region.”
Brent Rabik, Vice President – Operations & Sales, Al-Pac
Engineering work will now move forward, and Athabasca County’s share of the project costs will be incorporated into the 2026 budget.
