Released on March 7, 2016
Construction of the Regina Bypass continues on time and on budget with the assistance of Saskatchewan companies. At least 22 local companies are now playing significant roles in the massive transportation infrastructure project and that number will increase as construction picks up on the other areas of the project in the coming months.
“Since construction began this summer, approximately 450,000 cubic metres of earth have been moved for the project – about a third of what was moved for Wascana Lake’s ‘Big Dig,’ and a fraction of the 17,000,000 cubic metre total,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Nancy Heppner said. “The Regina Bypass will improve safety and create jobs for Regina and area people during and after construction.”
The Regina Bypass will provide many benefits to the capital region as well to the entire province. In addition to addressing urgent safety concerns and reducing congestion on local roadways, it is projected to create about 8,200 jobs in Saskatchewan.
“As a city, we have supported this project for many years,” Regina Mayor Michael Fougere said. “The Bypass will move heavy trucks off Victoria and Dewdney Avenues, and will improve safety for everyone travelling in the capital region.”
Once fully open to traffic in 2019, it will include 12 overpasses, 40 kilometres of new four-lane highway, 20 kilometres of resurfaced four-lane highway and 55 kilometres of service roads.
“We are excited to be working on the largest construction project in Saskatchewan history,” Broda Construction owner Gord Broda said. “It’s a major project that will provide significant work for Saskatchewan companies and Saskatchewan workers. We currently have 120 people working on the Bypass, with another 60 or so expected to join them when construction picks up this summer.”
Saskatchewan-based Broda was one of the first companies to start road work construction on the Regina Bypass in 2015.
“The Regina Bypass is one of the largest infrastructure projects Saskatchewan has ever seen,” Regina Chamber of Commerce CEO John Hopkins said. “The project’s economic impact, including its significant job creation is a key reason why our economy is staying strong, in spite of challenging energy prices.”
For more information about the Regina Bypass, please visit www.saskatchewan.ca/reginabypass.
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For more information, contact:
Doug Wakabayashi
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6815
Email: doug.wakabayashi@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-0049