Rolling road closures are scheduled for sections of the Queen Elizabeth II Highway and Highways 2A, 16, 43, 611 and 633 from July 24 to 27 to accommodate the papal motorcade. Rolling closures mean that a highway closure will be in place before and after the Pope’s motorcade passes by. Motorists can expect delays and should plan ahead and consider alternate routes where possible.
July 25
The QEII Highway southbound and Highway 611 west of Highway 2A will be closed between Edmonton and Maskwacis when the Pope travels from Edmonton to Maskwacis on the morning of July 25.
The QEII Highway and Highway 611 west of Highway 2A will be closed between Maskwacis and Edmonton when the Pope returns to Edmonton later in the afternoon.
Additionally, travellers can expect closures, significant delays and limited access along portions of Highway 2A, northbound and southbound, between Wetaskiwin, Maskwacis and Ponoka all day on July 25 beginning at approximately 5:00 a.m. until approximately 4:00 p.m. Visit 511.alberta.ca for the most accurate and timely information.
Travellers can also expect closures, significant delays and limited access along portions of Highway 611, eastbound and westbound, all day on July 25.
Travellers are asked to plan ahead and make alternate travel plans if possible.
Information on the papal travel schedule will be posted on 511.
- Call toll-free: 511 (in Alberta)
- Call: 1-855-391-9743 (outside Alberta)
- Visit: 511.alberta.ca
- Follow: @511Alberta
Highway closure information will also be posted on electronic message boards along the QEII Highway and Highways 2A, 16, 43, 611 and 633.
Additional Information
The Pope’s visit is expected to attract more than 15,000 people to the area. The province has identified three park-and-ride sites in the Wetaskiwin area to help accommodate visitors. Please have patience and expect delays if travelling in and around the area.
No private cars will be allowed on site, only official secure group buses and official secure shuttle buses will be able to reach the Maskwacis grounds.
Ticketholders for the Maskwacis event must board the official secure shuttle buses that will be loaded at the available Park-and-Ride locations.
All participants must arrive at a Park-and-Ride meeting spot very early: between 5:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. Arrivals after 7:00 a.m. are unlikely to get to the site in time for the event due to the large volumes of attendees anticipated.
Park and Ride Locations:
- Reynolds Alberta Museum
- Wetaskiwin Agricultural Society
- Edmonton International Speedway
- Ponoka Stampede Grounds