Province Awards $935,000 in Grant Funding for Township Road 540 Project
Powering prospective construction of a previously unbuilt segment of Township Road 540
The County is pleased to announce that it has been approved for funding through the Government of Alberta’s Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP) – Resource Road Program. The grant, totalling up to $935,000, is designated to support the construction of an undeveloped segment of Township Road 540 between Range Roads 31 and 32.
“The STIP grant positions us to be ready—but not rushed,” said Joe Blakeman, Reeve of Lac Ste. Anne County. “We appreciate the provincial government’s recognition of our local infrastructure needs, and we’re committed to ensuring we use it wisely.”
The project is currently in the preliminary planning phase. The County is awaiting engineering assessments and rough cost estimates—to better understand the scope and feasibility of the work. At this time, no construction timeline has been established.
Under the terms of the STIP grant, the province will reimburse up to 50% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $935,000. The final grant amount will be confirmed upon project completion and is subject to cost eligibility and budget compliance.
The County’s General Manager of Infrastructure, Brian Harman, added, “This section of road has long been identified as a strategic priority for improving access and long-term transportation efficiency. Our job now is to make sure the design, scope, and timing are right before moving forward.”
The provincial government continues to invest in local and regional infrastructure to improve transportation networks, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs across the province. Lac Ste. Anne County would like to thank the Government of Alberta, Honourable Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors, and MLA Shane Getson, Lac Ste. Anne – Parkland for their continued support of rural infrastructure.
“The STIP grant positions us to be ready—but not rushed. We appreciate the provincial government’s recognition of our local infrastructure needs, and we’re committed to ensuring we use it wisely.”
See the media release below:
Project Road 540: What We Know So Far
Why was this particular project chosen?
This segment of TWP RD 540 has been identified as a priority based on regional access needs, potential economic benefit, and its role in connecting transportation routes used by residents, agricultural producers, and industry.
Where is the funding coming from?
The project is supported by the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP) under Alberta’s Resource Road Program. The province has approved a maximum grant of $935,000, which will cover up to 50% of eligible project costs. The County will be responsible for the remaining share.
What is the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP)?
STIP is a provincial grant program that supports municipalities with the planning, construction, and rehabilitation of key transportation infrastructure. The Resource Road Program stream specifically targets roads that support economic development and access to natural resources.
What exactly is the Township Road 540 project?
The County has received provincial funding to for the construction of a new section of Township Road 540, located between Range Roads 31 and 32. This currently undeveloped corridor has been identified as a potential strategic link to improve local connectivity and access for both residents and industry.
Is construction confirmed?
No. At this stage, the project remains in the planning phase. Engineering design and cost estimates are still being developed. The County will only move forward to tender and construction if the project is feasible, cost-effective, and aligns with our infrastructure priorities and available budget.
Will the municipality be required to cover cost overruns?
Yes. The STIP program includes a maximum grant cap and will not cover any cost increases beyond that amount. Any overages or ineligible costs would fall to the County, which is why detailed costing and risk assessment are being prioritised before moving forward.
Can the funding be used for another project if this one doesn’t proceed?
No. The grant is project-specific. If the Township Road 540 project does not proceed, the funding would not be transferable to another initiative. However, the County could apply to STIP in future years for other eligible projects.
What are the benefits if the project proceeds?
If constructed, the project would improve local transportation efficiency, create a more connected rural road network, and potentially enhance access for resource and agricultural operations in the area. It could also reduce travel times and support regional economic development.
How often does STIP funding become available? Can the County apply again in the future?
STIP funding is typically available on an annual basis, and municipalities may apply each year. However, certain funding streams—like the Resource Road Program—have restrictions (one resource road project every two years. The County continues to assess infrastructure priorities annually and will apply for future funding as appropriate.
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