CALGARY — In the past few years, Calgary’s southeast quadrant has unofficially become the home of the city’s transportation scene.

With an abundance of land and close proximity to major thoroughfares heading in all four directions, a number of carriers have set up shop on the outskirts of Alberta’s largest city, and the routes to and from the area are about to get better.

Funded as part of the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative (APGCI), the federal government will provide up to $34.5 million to widen 52 Street SE in Calgary from 114 Avenue to 130 Avenue SE from two to four lanes, and from 90 Avenue to 106 Avenue SE, from two to six lanes.

The work also includes the construction of a grade separation at the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) rail line and the Western Headwaters Canal; intersection improvements; and storm water upgrades.

"Investing in strategic infrastructure benefits our communities and is key to Canada’s ability to compete in this rapidly changing world of global commerce," said Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.

This project is part of a larger effort already underway by the city to widen 52 Street from Glenmore Trail to 130 Avenue SE.

"With 40 percent of our industrial traffic activity focused in southeast Calgary, improvements to the local transportation infrastructure will benefit a significant number of businesses, employers and workers," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier.