Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
The Manitoba government is investing $4.8 million in road upgrades in Neepawa to improve safety and support the growing community’s access to its newly expanded hospital and industrial park.
The projects will upgrade two sections of Provincial Trunk Highway 16, also known as the Yellowhead Highway, which serves as a major artery for the western Manitoba town.
Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard announced the funding Thursday, stating the work is essential to keep pace with the town’s growth.
“These improvements represent a critical investment in the future of Neepawa and the overall region,” Simard said in a news release. “Improving mobility will allow residents and businesses to more easily access the expanded regional health centre, as well as a community road network that connects to a new affordable daycare, the new school, the industrial park and Neepawa’s largest employer, HyLife Foods.”
The first project involves a $2-million provincial contribution toward the extension of Hamilton Street. This new road system, being built by the Town of Neepawa, will connect with PTH 16 and provide key access to the new regional hospital.
The second project, valued at $2.8 million, will see Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure complete a traffic safety improvement project on PTH 16. This includes adding a dedicated right-turn lane into the Neepawa Health Centre and a right-turn cut-off for exiting traffic.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor said the projects reflect a commitment to rural infrastructure needs.
“As the economic growth in Neepawa continues, it’s important that local residents can feel safe and secure as they interact with a growing number of vehicles on the road,” Naylor stated. “This infrastructure investment will ensure a high level of safety for all drivers.”
The tender for the traffic safety project has been awarded and construction is expected to be finished by the fall of 2025.
Local officials welcomed the investment, highlighting its importance for both safety and economic development.
“The Town of Neepawa appreciates the province’s investment in our community and region, to support safer roads for all users and improve access to essential services,” said Neepawa Mayor Brian Hedley. “This funding will not only improve traffic flow and mitigate congestion, but it will greatly enhance and support economic development in rural Manitoba and enhance trade routes.”
The funding for the Hamilton Street extension comes from the Manitoba Growth, Renewal and Opportunities Program, which was launched in October 2024 to support community infrastructure projects.
