Sturgeon County Council held a public hearing on Aug. 26 to consider a proposal to introduce a seasonal variable speed limit on Range Road 235, Lily Lake Road, aimed at addressing fall traffic volumes linked to Prairie Gardens and Adventure Farm.
Prairie Gardens owner Tam Andersen told council the proposal was about keeping both visitors and residents safe while allowing agritourism to continue.
“As a small, multi-generational family farm here in Sturgeon County, we are deeply encouraged by the care and concern of this council,” she said. “By embracing smart technology, such as the digital variable speed zone sign, Sturgeon County is demonstrating leadership in sustainable growth and resilience.”
Andersen described Prairie Gardens as more than a business.
“Our farm, like many others, faces uncertainties beyond our control—climate change, spring droughts, hail storms, international tariffs and shifting regulatory landscapes,” she said. “What we need is the ability to invest in our future in Sturgeon County with confidence. Prairie Gardens was first established as a tree farm in 1956… It’s where we work, it’s where we create jobs, it’s where our children grew up, and it’s our children’s future.”
Smith said the measure is affordable for a small farm compared to the alternative of constructing a northbound right-turn lane.
“The conservative low cost of a right-hand turn lane is half a million dollars,” Smith said, explaining that the cost of having a variable speed limit is more manageable for the farm.
He added that from a driver’s perspective, the impact would be minimal; he said, “the difference is 13 seconds.”
Administration confirmed that improvements are required to handle Prairie Gardens’ requested traffic levels. Acting manager of planning and development services, Tyler McNab, told council the current intersection “safely supports up to 50 vehicles per day, or 100 vehicle trips.” With changes in place, he said, the site could accommodate up to 1,350 daily trips, which comes to 670 vehicles in and out per day during peak season.
Not all residents agreed. Neighbour Fred Fibi said, “We live next door to Prairie Gardens, and at no time has it made an effort to come talk to us about this. We question, why are we asking residents of this county to be inconvenienced solely for the benefit of one business?” He also raised concerns about signage, traffic volume, and enforcement, telling council, “Slowing the speed limit to 80 kilometres an hour makes no difference.”
Others spoke in support of the proposal. Hugh Allen, a farmer who lives nearby, explained that he drives the road daily.
“I’ve driven that road daily for over 50 years, and there’s been the odd careless driver, but never has it been a daily occurrence,” he said. “As far as Prairie Gardens creating seasonal traffic issues, it must be realized that all agricultural activities are seasonal and generally create a disruption for commuters.”
Mayor Alanna Hnatiw noted that the measure should be viewed as temporary.
“It is not a long-term solution,” she said.
Legislative services reported receiving seven written submissions ahead of the hearing: two in support and five opposed.
Council will come back with a decision on the proposal at its Sept. 9 meeting. If approved, the speed reduction from 100 km/h to 80 km/h would apply annually during Prairie Gardens’ fall season, with all costs covered by the business.
