The Town is committed to enhancing downtown Okotoks through major infrastructure and streetscape upgrades. These improvements will create a more welcoming, accessible and connected community, support local businesses and drive economic growth.

Thank you for your patience as we finish the downtown improvements along North Railway Street (Poplar Avenue to Alberta Avenue) and Lineham Avenue. These streets are being prepared for re-opening very soon.

You’ll see several changes, including a new roundabout at the entrance to the downtown core. We understand that a refreshed layout in a familiar place can take a little getting used to, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we adjust together.

When you’re driving through the new roundabout and near the rail crossing, please:

• Approach the roundabout with care - slow down and follow the new signs and road markings.
• Yield to pedestrians at all crosswalks - pedestrian safety is a priority.
• Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout - they have the right-of-way.
• If a train is coming through and Lineham Avenue is blocked – don’t stop in the roundabout. Help maintain the free flow of traffic by keeping the roundabout clear. This helps reduce congestion, delays and safety risks for everyone.

The roundabout is designed to offer safer, smoother access into downtown, including when trains pass through. Have a look at the graphic below for a review of how to use a one-lane roundabout (image credit: City of Red Deer).

Here's a general roundabout navigation video to help you feel confident when approaching a roundabout.
Credit: City of Red Deer

Why did the downtown improvements include a roundabout?

The roundabout was added as part of Okotoks’ plan to make downtown safer, easier to move around and more inviting. Roundabouts help traffic flow more smoothly and reduce the need for stop signs or lights, which cuts down on congestion. They also slow vehicles down, making it safer for people walking and biking. Overall, the roundabout supports the Town’s goal of creating a more connected and welcoming downtown.

Can the new roundabout fit big trucks like fire engines, ambulances, garbage trucks and semis?

Yes. The roundabout and driving lanes have been designed to accommodate emergency vehicles and large delivery trucks which helps support business operations downtown.

Why does the road seem so narrow?

The design intentionally includes narrower lanes to encourage slower, more deliberate driving behavior and improve pedestrian comfort and safety. Vehicles still have adequate maneuvering space.

Where can I park?

On-street parking is still available and is now level with the sidewalk to make access easier for everyone.

I’ve seen some temporary-looking pavement in certain areas, what’s happening there?

There’s a short-term layer of pavement at the west end to connect the old road to the new one. It will be taken out when the next phase of the project starts in 2026.

Project Overview

Why is the Town doing this work?

• Renewing essential infrastructure: Aging water and sewer systems beneath North Railway Street, Poplar Avenue, Alberta Avenue and Lineham Avenue require replacement to maintain reliable service.
• Revitalizing downtown: The Town is modernizing the downtown area based on community feedback from the 2020 and 2024 Main Street public and business engagement sessions and years of downtown policy and planning work.
• Supporting community priorities: Revitalizing the downtown supports the Town's goals to attract new businesses, make conditions better for our existing businesses, and create more vibrant and welcoming community spaces.

Community Engagement & History

How has community input shaped the project?

• Resident and business feedback helped shape the design. We carefully considered how businesses operate and how improved public spaces can better support them.
• Review the What We Learned Report summarizing public engagement.

What is the history of downtown Okotoks?

• Downtown has been the heart of Okotoks for over 100 years—a gathering place for businesses, celebrations and community events.
• These improvements ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.

Learn more: Downtown Story

Construction Progress & Timeline

What work was completed in 2025?

• North Railway Street upgrades: Replacement of underground utilities between McRae Street and Poplar Ave, and burial of overhead power lines. Improvements to sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and connectivity. New boulevard trees, garbage cans, benches, street lighting, and on-street parking stalls.
• New roundabout: Installation of a roundabout at Lineham Avenue and North Railway Street to improve traffic flow and safety during train crossings.
• Pisttoo Park: Enhancement work and design integration to improve access, safety and connection to Main Street. Some landscaping finishes will be completed in early 2026 once the remaining planting material becomes available.

What’s happening in 2026?

Phase 2 of the Downtown Improvement Project will begin in the spring of 2026 along North Railway Street between Alberta Avenue and McRae Street, plus work on Alberta Avenue itself. Work will include:

• Replacement of aging underground water and sewer networks
• Moving overhead powerlines and utilities underground
• Widening of sidewalks and boulevard enhancements
• Improved street lighting and enhanced pedestrian crossings
• Upgrades to Triangle Park
• Continued streetscape improvements (trees, seating, bike racks, lighting)

How long will the 2026 work take?

Construction will continue through the 2026 season, progressing in phases to minimize disruption. Most work will occur between spring and fall, with final landscaping and finishing touches completed before winter.

Design & Features

What design changes can residents and visitors expect?

• Wider, accessible sidewalks and improved crossings.
• More boulevard trees, greenery and decorative plantings.
• Upgraded street furniture and lighting.
• Enhanced public areas designed for community use, patios and events.
• Better connections between Main Street, Triangle and Pisttoo Parks.

What improvements are happening in Pisttoo and Triangle Parks?

• Redesigned for accessibility and community gathering.
• New landscaping, seating and open areas for families to enjoy.
• Improved pedestrian links to Main Street.
• Updated lighting and pathways for comfort and safety.

What’s happening with downtown trees?

• Mature trees have been preserved wherever possible to maintain downtown’s character.
• Approximately seven older trees were removed at Pisttoo Park and 42 new trees are being planted throughout the downtown.
• This results in a net increase in trees, providing shade, environmental benefits and long-term beautification.
• As new trees mature, canopies will rise above storefronts, maintaining visibility while adding greenery.

Transportation & Access

How will traffic be managed in 2026?

• Construction will occur in phases to maintain access for vehicles, pedestrians and deliveries. Disruptions to sidewalks will occur, however access to businesses will be preserved.
• Detours and alternate routes will be clearly signed.
• The new Lineham Avenue roundabout will help traffic circulate smoothly even when trains are crossing.
• A final water main installation is required at the CPKC railway beneath Lineham Avenue. This work will be constructed in 2026 and will require a closure of Lineham Avenue, however the remaining three legs of the roundabout will continue to be open.

How will pedestrian and business access be maintained?

• Temporary access walkways will be constructed to ensure ongoing access to all businesses and residences.
• The Town continues to work closely with business owners to coordinate construction schedules and signage. Businesses with questions are encouraged to contact the Okotoks Engineering Department at engineering@okotoks.ca or 403-995-6337
• When all construction is complete and the street is restored to its final design, vehicle and pedestrian access will be fully reopened.

Who clears snow from new sidewalks and boulevards?

• Property owners are responsible for sidewalks directly in front of their buildings.
• The Town clears streets, parking areas, and designated boulevards.

Details: okotoks.ca/your-services/maintenance/snow-clearing

Project Benefits

How will these improvements benefit Okotoks?

For the community:

• A safer, more walkable and more inviting downtown core.
• Enhanced accessibility for all ages and abilities.
• Beautiful public spaces and parks that encourage connection and civic pride.

For businesses:

• A more attractive environment that draws visitors and supports local businesses.
• Opportunities for expanded patios, outdoor retail and community programming.
• Improved streetscape visibility, lighting and accessibility for customers.

For the environment:

• Greener, more sustainable urban space with increased tree canopy.
• Improved stormwater management and climate resilience.
• More comfortable, pedestrian-friendly spaces with trees and greenery that make walking and spending time downtown more enjoyable.

For the economy and future growth:

• Enhanced downtown identity that attracts new investment and continues to strengthen our local businesses.
• Supporting long-term economic growth and diversification of the tax base.
• A more vibrant, active downtown that supports both residents and visitors.

Events & Community Life

What’s happening with downtown events?

• Upcoming 2026 downtown events may be temporarily adjusted or relocated depending on the construction schedule. Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy the new North Railway Street during Light Up 2025.
• Events in Olde Towne Plaza (Stephenson Park) and near the Okotoks Arts & Learning Campus will continue as usual.
• Once construction is complete, Main Street will be even better suited for markets, parades and festivals.

Find all event information at okotoks.ca/events

Visit the Construction Notices Page on okotoks.ca to stay in the loop on construction work happening around town.