MHCA laid out a number of priorities regarding Winnipeg’s street renewal program in a meeting October 23 with Coun. Janice Lukes, Chair of the Public Works Committee.
MHCA President & CEO Chris Lorenc highlighted the industry’s request to have a post-construction season debrief with Public Works, to examine how the local and regional street renewal program for 2023 rolled out, what lessons can be learned to inform the program planning for 2024.
As well, Lorenc raised questions regarding City Hall’s plans to appoint a Chief Construction Officer, including clarity on the scope of the CCO’s work, and how the office would be resourced.
He said the industry would like to be consulted regarding the specific issues Council would like to be addressed.
The MHCA also asked for the Winnipeg Road Construction Working Group to meet again, to review progress on the issues it was originally asked to address in 2019, including improving communication with residents and businesses affected by construction, and improving the overall procurement, design and road construction process.
Other topics discussed included:
- Progress on the direction to Public Works to provide recommendations for accelerated use of recycled concrete aggregates in road base design
- Budget funding options for the local and regional streets renewal program, arising from Budget 2023 discussions
- Lukes meeting with the Goods Movement Advisory Committee, to discuss ensuring the safe, efficient movement of goods is part of the planning process in strategic planning of Winnipeg transportation network
- a working group to develop a plan to sustainably invest in preventive maintenance and preservation of the transportation system
- heavy construction industry has requested a special meeting with the Social Procurement Liaison when it is clearer what social procurement and environmental requirements might be included in pilots and tenders for roadbuilding in the 2024 season
Lukes took the information and requests under advisement.
The meeting was also attended by MHCA Board representatives.
