August 19, 2014
Major Upgrades to Brandon Airport Announced
– – –Modernization Will Support Westman Economic Growth, Good Jobs for Families: Premier Selinger
The Honourable Greg Selinger, Premier of Manitoba, along with Member of Parliament for Brandon-Souris Larry Maguire and Brandon Mayor, Shari Decter Hirst announced the three levels of government will each be committing up to $2.9 million for the Brandon Municipal Airport Passenger Terminal Redevelopment project.
“Brandon and the Westman region are undergoing a time of unprecedented economic and population growth,” Premier Selinger said. “Increased passenger traffic from WestJet’s newly-established flight service to Brandon is a sign of increasing regional investment, and our support for strategic projects like this will ensure Brandon has the infrastructure it needs to continue driving the region’s steady economic growth and job creation.”
The project involves renovating and expanding the existing terminal to improve passenger flow and accommodate future growth needs. It will enhance safety and security for passengers and employees alike by increasing traveller and baggage capacities in processing and secure areas. Additionally, the project will help improve the airport’s information technology infrastructure by installing fibre broadband to allow for fast and reliable broadband connectivity.
“Our Government’s support for public infrastructure has never been stronger. We are pleased to work with the City of Brandon and the Province of Manitoba to approve projects under the New Building Canada Plan, to ensure that infrastructure funding continues to flow in Manitoba,” said Maguire. “Our Government is focused on creating jobs and building strong communities across Canada. We are proud to invest in the Airport Passenger Terminal Redevelopment project at McGill Field which will make it easier to travel and do business in southwestern Manitoba.”
The proposed redevelopment will increase efficiency of passenger processing, provide a substantial increase in amenities and comfort for end users. It will also increase capacity for the flow of goods and services as well as business and leisure travel. The airport expansion project is anticipated to expand the terminal capacity to accommodate over 100 passengers.
“Expansion of our Municipal Airport is truly the lynchpin in terms of creating a regional hub for passenger air travel in southwestern Manitoba,” said Decter Hirst. “We are a growing, thriving, modern community and, soon, we will have an airport that reflects that and also positions us well for continued growth and prosperity.”
Manitoba’s commitment for the project comes under its $5.5-billion, five-year plan to invest in core infrastructure including roads, bridges, clean water projects, municipal infrastructure and flood protection. Independent analysis conducted by the Conference Board of Canada projects Manitoba’s plan will create 58,900 jobs, boost the province’s economy by $6.3 billion and increase exports by $5.4 billion. This investment builds upon Manitoba’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the City of Brandon, including a recent announcement for a provincial commitment of up to $12.25 million to enhance Brandon’s flood protection infrastructure.
The Province of Manitoba is distributing this release on behalf of the governments of Canada and Manitoba and the City of Brandon.