Nov. 3, 1993: Whitemud Drive opens to traffic in south Edmonton

In anticipation ofthe opening of the newest section of Whitemud Drive24 years ago, hundreds of cars lined up, some for two hours, to cruise the freshly-paved asphalt.

When the barricades wereremoved,cars began streaming over the new roadway.

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Constructionon the section had taken3years, during which motorists had been frustrated by detours and delays.

Once completed, Whitemud Drive offered quicker access between southeast and west Edmonton, butsome drivers feltthe 80 km/h speed limit was too low.

One driver pointed out the speed limit on Calgary's Deerfoot Trail was 100 km/h.

However, city planners saidtheyhad to consider the large number of ramps feeding onto the Whitemud, but might consider raising the limit to 90 km/h.

Today the limitremains80 km/h.