Detail sought in Manitoba’s $513-million infrastructure investment
The MHCA has asked Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler for a detailed breakdown on the announced $513-million injection for infrastructure works as part of the province’s economic kickstart plan.
The province announced on 8 May the new funding will be used over the next two years, as a means of getting people back to work and local economies recovering.
The $513-million Manitoba Restart Program includes funding for:
- water and sewage projects through the Municipal Water Services Board
- road and highway resurfacing and repairs
- bridge repairs
- municipal infrastructure priorities
- potential new cost-sharing construction projects with other levels of government if agreements can be reached.
MHCA requested a discussion with Schuler to understand the details and to offer advice on project-type selection, tender roll-out, scheduling and related.
MHCA is also pressing Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Blaine Pedersen for assurance the Quarry Rehabilitation Program will be restarted this year, to assist rural municipalities that host pits and quarries in their economic recovery.
“Many of these businesses evolved out of the program since its introduction by the Filmon government in 1991,” a letter sent to Pederson in April noted. “They provide rural employment through work which remediates spent quarries and leaves the local environment improved.”
The letter was copied to five provincial ministers and to the Association of Manitoba Municipalities.
