A $18 million construction project is set to begin near Swift Current.

Construction will start up on two overpasses on the Trans-Canada Highway over the CP Rail tracks above five kilometres east of the city. The project will include the full replacement of the existing overpass structure on the eastbound lanes and the rehabilitation of the bridge supporting the westbound lanes.

“This is a very significant investment for Swift Current and all of southwest Saskatchewan given the importance of Highway 1 to our area,” said Swift Current MLA Everett Hindley on behalf of Highways Minister Fred Bradshaw on Monday.

“Highway 1 is a key part of the transportation network that keeps our goods moving to other markets and helps our residents get where they need to go as quickly and safely as possible. This is a major project that will take several months to complete and I encourage everyone to drive carefully when going through the construction zone.”

Regina-based company Graham Construction will begin work on the westbound bridge Monday. Completion of that phase is expected at the end of June. Work on the eastbound portion will then begin, with completion expected in the fall.

Drivers may expect minor delays during construction. When one bridge is under construction, all traffic will cross over to the other. Wide loads will be detoured around the construction zone.

Motorists are reminded to slow down to 60 km/h when passing highway workers and equipment.