COUTTS: A stretch of shared gravel road along the Canada–US border near the Sweet Grass Hills is set to be closed to Canadians, ending decades of informal cross-border access between neighbouring farming communities.
Border Road, a 14-kilometre strip located on the Montana side but maintained by Alberta, has long allowed residents from both countries to freely move between properties along the world’s longest undefended border.
For families living on either side, the road has symbolised close community ties built over generations, with residents recalling years of unrestricted movement for visits, farming cooperation and social interaction.
However, authorities now say the road will be restricted due to increased border security measures. A parallel access route is expected to be built on the Canadian side to maintain local connectivity.
Alberta officials confirmed that work on the new road, budgeted at around $8 million, is scheduled to begin in April and is expected to be completed by summer. The adjustment follows directives linked to strengthened enforcement at the border.
Residents on both sides have expressed disappointment over the change, saying it disrupts long-standing community relationships, although officials insist local access will still be maintained through the new infrastructure.
Despite the closure, authorities say cross-border ties between farming communities are expected to continue in other forms, even as the physical route between them changes.
