Many railways in the area went through the Crowsnest Pass between Lethbridge and Fort Macleod, over steep grades that hampered operations.

Although the original route accomplished its purpose in allowing the CPR to rapidly complete the railway, it turned out to be expensive to operate.

In 1905, the CPR decided, to construct a completely new route on a better gradient to bypass the original line.

Construction began in the summer of 1907, directed by CPR's Assistant Chief Engineer John Edward Schwitzer.

Clearing and grading the site, construction of piers, and placement of the footings progressed while the steelwork was being prefabricated.

Transport of the steel to the site required 645 railway cars while another 40 were needed to bring in equipment.