The provincial and federal governments announced a combined $291 million in spending on eight highways in Manitoba Feb. 13.
Improvements will be made to Highways 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 16 and 75 as a result of these investments, the two levels of government said in a press release.
Work on Highway 6 includes rehabilitating approximately 100 kilometres in three sections as well as associated safety-related improvements, with a total cost of $54.35 million. The work will be done in the area between Sasagiu Rapids and Provincial Road 375 to Paint Lake as well as in the Grahamdale area and between Lundar and Eriksdale. The press release said new lanes would be added along a six-kilometre stretch of the highway to improve safety.
A provincial government spokesperson said Manitoba Infrastructure will spend $18.4 million of the Highway 6 funding on paving from Sasagiu Rapids to PR 375. Half of this project was substantially completed in 2018-19 and the second half, from 25 kilometres north of Sasagiu Rapids to PR 375, is currently being tendered.
“This extensive work to create safer, more fluid travel on Manitoba’s highway network will help local businesses compete, allow residents to spend less time on the road, and make it easier for tourists to explore this beautiful region,” said federal Rural Economic Development Minister Bernadette Jordan. “We’re proud to support projects that promote a higher quality of life and long-term economic prosperity for all Manitobans.”
The Manitoba government is providing $147,442,500 of the funding while the federal government is contributing $143,967,500.
“Our investment in these highway projects re-enforce the province of Manitoba’s commitment to support economic growth and will have a positive impact on Manitoba’s economy for years to come,” said Manitoba Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler. “We continue to focus our investment on improving Manitoba’s provincial highway network, ensuring Manitobans see their money at work each and every day. These critical investments provide Manitobans with the tools needed to strengthen access in and out of surrounding communities, ensuring residents have a safe and healthy place to live, work and raise a family. ”
