October 20, 2020
Province Announces New Bridge on PTH 9 in West St. Paul
– – –New Vehicle and Pedestrian Bridge will Improve Safety: Schuler
The Manitoba government has completed the construction of a new bridge over the Grassmere Drain on Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 9 through the Rural Municipality of West St. Paul, Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler announced today. In addition to the new vehicle bridge, a new pedestrian bridge on a separate active transportation path was constructed to improve safety.
“Our government’s commitment to safety and highway standards was a priority when building this new bridge. It was built with a service life of 75 years which will ensure traffic to flow smoothly for decades to come,” said Schuler. “We also identified the need for a pedestrian bridge to improve safety and we worked with the RM of West St. Paul to make it successful.”
The new bridge replaced an aging reinforced concrete box culvert constructed in 1913, which reached the end of its service life. PTH 9 is a vital part of the transportation network as over 10,000 vehicles travel it daily, linking residents and businesses north of the Perimeter Highway.
The replacement structure is 21.5 metres long, supports four lanes of traffic and is capable of RTAC loading. The new bridge will also allow for a wider channel opening, improving flow during high water events including spring run-off. The total project cost is just under $5.9 million, the minister noted.
“This is exciting news for West St. Paul, our residents and surrounding communities. The new bridge on PTH 9 addresses flooding and drainage concerns in our community and neighbouring communities and improves traffic safety with a median and turning lanes,” said Mayor Cheryl Christian, RM of West St. Paul. “The beautiful new pedestrian bridge promotes a safe, connected and active community. We are so grateful for the positive partnership we have with the provincial government and Minister Schuler.”
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