Winnipeg Upgrades Roads to Spur Economic Activity

Recognizing that modern and efficient roadways are crucial to encouraging and supporting economic activity, facilitating trade, and creating good paying, middle class jobs, the governments of Canada and Manitoba have announced investments in roads across Winnipeg in an effort to also make them safer and more reliable for the residents that depend on them every day.

In 2016, Winnipeg was able to upgrade 137 roads thanks, in part, to $36.5 million provided to the City through the federal Gas Tax Fund (GTF). From smaller projects such as sidewalk renewals and granular lane paving, to the major reconstruction and rehabilitation of main roads, these investments are helping to improve travel throughout Winnipeg. See the full proposed list of 2016 road improvements projects.

The City also used some of its annual GTF allocation to improve public transit services across the City in 2016.

The governments of Canada and Manitoba will continue to invest in Winnipeg’s roads and bridges recognizing that it supports local businesses, increases tourism, and helps ensure residents travel safely and efficiently throughout the City.

“The federal Gas Tax Fund gives communities the flexibility to spend money on infrastructure projects where they need it most. Here in Winnipeg, road and sidewalk improvements are a priority, and these projects make the City’s transportation network more efficient and reliable — helping kids travel safely to their schools and workers arrive on time at their jobs. It will also reduce vehicle repair costs and improve the safety and quality of life for residents for many years to come.”

In 2016-17, the Government of Canada made $68.7 million available to Manitoba communities through the annual federal Gas Tax Fund transfer. In late 2016-17, the Government of Canada transferred and additional $835,093 to Manitoba from unused legacy funding programs through a federal GTF top up. Another $68.7 million (regular allocation) will be made available to municipalities in 2017-2018 for their community infrastructure priorities.

The City of Winnipeg completed 41 road improvements projects in 2015 and is planning to complete over 150 road improvements projects in 2017 thanks in part to its annual funding allocation from the federal GTF.

Category: General Update