RMWB Prepares for Spring Flood Season with Temporary Closures and Construction

As warmer weather signals the approach of spring, the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is gearing up for the 2025 flood season. Beginning as early as March 9, temporary closures and construction will be implemented in key areas to bolster flood protection during river breakup. Clearwater Drive will be closed from Franklin Avenue to King Street for the installation of surface protection measures, with crews working to ensure the community is safeguarded against potential flooding.

The construction will also bring various parking and traffic disruptions. Parking will be closed on Queen Street, south of Rona, for pump installation, and the Heritage Shipyard Parking Lot will be closed to the public for dam deployment. Additionally, lane closures will affect Hardin Street’s left turn onto Clearwater Drive, and the Clearwater Drive intersection at Alberta Drive will be narrowed for pump installation. Sidewalks near Borealis Park and trails northeast of River Park Glen will also be closed for dam deployment.

The RMWB is urging residents to be patient and obey all signage as crews work to complete these critical flood mitigation measures. The closures are expected to remain in place until cleanup is finished after the river breakup, and the risk of flooding in the lower townsite has subsided. These efforts aim to protect the community and minimize disruptions during the spring flood season.