The Whoop-Up Drive bridge rehabilitation work has reportedly caused an increase in illegal driving behaviours. (Photo: City of Lethbridge traffic camera)

By David Opinko

‘Significant increase’ in illegal U-turns due to Whoop-Up construction: LPS

Jul 30, 2025 | 9:12 AM

The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) is urging drivers to obey the rules of the road, particularly when navigating through construction zones.

A bridge rehabilitation project began last week on Whoop-Up Drive, which is expected to cause traffic delays until the end of September.

READ MORE: Whoop-Up lane closures starting next week (July 15 article)

LPS says many drivers have been seen engaging in illegal driving behavious like speeding, and, to avoid the expected longer commutes, illegal U-turns.

“On Monday, patrol officers noted a significant increase in illegal U-turns in the 500 block of Scenic Drive South due to the closure of the off-ramp to westbound Whoop Up from northbound Scenic Drive,” says LPS. “Police stopped 67 drivers for illegal U-turns at the intersection of Scenic Drive and 5 Avenue South, and a ‘No U-turn’ sign has now been added.”

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Under Section 30 of the Use of Highway and Rules of the Road Regulations, drivers shall not make U-turns at the following locations:

• On a roadway between intersections
• At an alley intersection
• At an intersection where one or more highways is an access to a public or private facility
• At a place where a sign prohibits making a U-turn, or;
• At an intersection controlled by a traffic control signal (e.g. traffic lights), unless specifically permitted by a traffic control device (e.g. sign).

The fine for an illegal U-turn is $162.

Drivers heading north on Scenic Drive who wish to access westbound Whoop-Up Drive during the ramp closure can take the posted detour.

In addition to U-turns, police issued nearly 50 violation tickets for speeding through the Whoop-Up construction zone while workers were present.

“The majority of the motorists who were stopped were travelling between 20 and 30 km/h over the limit, with one driver clocked at more than 45 km/h over as crews worked just feet away,” says LPS.

Fines for speeding in construction zones are doubled when there are workers.

Drivers are advised to leave early to account for the road work, take alternate routes like Highway 3, follow all posted signage, and drive cautiously.

READ MORE: Dozens caught speeding in Whoop-Up Drive construction zone