Range Road 253 deteriorating into rutted mess from airport traffic
Rural south Edmonton gravel road has become a popular shortcut but infrastructure can't handle the volume, residents say.
A heavily trafficked gravel road in rural south Edmonton is deteriorating rapidly under commuter pressure, leaving residents frustrated with city response.
Range Road 253 (153 Street SW) between 73 Avenue SW and Highway 19 has evolved from a quiet country road into a major bypass route, particularly for drivers heading to Edmonton International Airport and Nisku. The increased volume is taking a visible toll: deep ruts, mud, and potholes that require vehicles to crawl or risk suspension damage.
"It's teeth-chattering," said resident Chris Blake, who has lived along the road since 2001. "It shakes every bolt and piece of plastic in your car." After recent heavy rainfall, conditions worsen dramatically.
The area was annexed by Edmonton from Leduc County in 2019. Blake says the city grades and adds gravel a few times yearly, but repairs last only days before the surface deteriorates again, especially in wet weather. The road was never designed for current traffic volumes. Blake has begun handing out flyers to commuters, urging them to contact city council. Residents ultimately want the road paved. The City of Edmonton said there is currently no active construction project or capital funding earmarked for the stretch. Mayor Andrew Knack cited competing budget priorities.