A newly-formed sinkhole near Banff, Alta., has led to the closure of a segment of Trans-Canada Highway 1, causing a detour for eastbound traffic via Norquay Road. According to a social media post from the Town of Banff, the sinkhole measures approximately seven meters in length and two meters in width.
Multiple Agencies Involved in Traffic Management
Parks Canada crews, Standish Towing, the RCMP, and the Town of Banff’s Municipal Enforcement are collaboratively managing traffic at key intersections throughout the town. The team is also planning an alternate detour for later on Thursday, in which eastbound and westbound traffic will share the highway’s westbound lanes.
A sinkhole has formed on the TransCanada Highway 1 in the eastbound lanes between the Norquay Road Exit and the exit at Compound Road to the #Banff Industrial District…
— Banff Town (@Banff_Town) August 31, 2023
Town Issues Advisory
The local authorities have requested that people refrain from using the current detour route to ensure the safe passage of transport vehicles. Additionally, motorists have been advised not to leave the town via Norquay Road. Engineers are currently assessing the situation to develop both temporary and long-term solutions for the sinkhole.
Anticipated Delays and Road Closure Reports
Both the RCMP and Alberta 511 have announced the road closure between Norquay Road and Compound Road and are warning drivers to anticipate delays.
The unfolding situation has created inconvenience for drivers and poses an immediate challenge for authorities tasked with ensuring the safe and efficient rerouting of traffic.
