June 8, 2023
Manitoba Government Commits Funding to City of Winnipeg for Second Shared Transportation Priority
– – –$700,000 for Feasibility Study, Planning on Chief Peguis Trail Extension: Premier
Watch news conference
The Manitoba government continues to invest in critical infrastructure projects to promote new commercial and residential development, and position the province as a strategic transportation hub, Premier Heather Stefanson and Municipal Relations Minister Andrew Smith announced today.
“Chief Peguis Trail is a key roadway that connects communities and economic development opportunities within the City of Winnipeg and the province as a whole,” said Stefanson. “This is why we are working collaboratively with the City of Winnipeg to advance this project and unlock growth and development in the area, for the benefit of all Manitobans.”
The $700,000 investment represents 50 per cent of the City of Winnipeg’s identified costs for the project’s next phase, which includes conducting a feasibility study.
“This extension is incredibly important for the City of Winnipeg and for those who travel between the east and west side of the city,” said Smith. “Expanding Chief Peguis Trail will be more convenient for residents and will be good for the economy.”
Budget 2023 increased the Strategic Municipal Investment Fund’s allocation to the City of Winnipeg by 19 per cent to $89.8 million, to support more capital projects, Smith added.
“This important trade route project has been on the books for 50 years and population growth in the northwest corner of the city has exploded over that time,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham, City of Winnipeg. “I know area residents are eager to get this extension moving, as it will remove heavy trucks from residential neighbourhoods, add significant new bike and pedestrian paths to the area, and open up land for much-needed new housing within the city of Winnipeg.”
Under the terms of the Strategic Municipal Investment Fund, the City of Winnipeg must send a formal request to the Manitoba government to prioritize this funding.
The Manitoba government recently increased comprehensive funding support to all 137 municipalities to address operating and capital priorities critical to maintaining healthy, sustainable communities through the fund.
Budget 2023 provides $160 million in infrastructure basket funding for all municipalities, an increase of $23.4 million from last year. The basket funding model reduces red tape and provides municipalities with flexibility to invest in strategic infrastructure projects that address local needs, the minister said.
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