Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
Saskatchewan’s provincial government has unveiled its largest-ever capital budget, with $4.6 billion allocated for infrastructure projects across the province in the 2025-26 fiscal year.
With nearly $1.9 billion earmarked for government-led projects and almost $2.8 billion directed toward commercial Crown corporations, the focus is on both meeting immediate needs and preparing for future growth.
“This is a historic moment for Saskatchewan,” said SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit. “The investments we’re making today will strengthen the foundation for Saskatchewan families and communities.
“This budget brings us closer to our goal of investing $30 billion by 2030 to keep up with the growing demands for infrastructure in the province.”
A standout portion of the budget is the investment in health infrastructure. At $656.9 million, this marks the largest-ever investment in health capital, up more than $140 million from last year. The funding will support several significant health projects, including:
- $322.4 million for the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital redevelopment project.
- $24.4 million for the Weyburn General Hospital replacement project.
- $33.8 million for the La Ronge long-term care project.
- $40.0 million for the Regina long-term care specialized beds project.
- $10.0 million for the Grenfell long-term care project.
Education also sees a substantial investment, with $191.3 million dedicated to school infrastructure projects. Key areas of focus include:
- $140 million for 21 new or expanded schools and major renovations in Regina, Swift Current, and Balgonie.
- $28.5 million for relocatable classrooms to accommodate rising student numbers.
- $15.3 million for minor capital renewal projects to maintain and repair existing schools.
- $7.5 million for planning of new schools, including replacements and additions.
Another $41 million is allocated for infrastructure in colleges and universities. Highlights include:
- $24.6 million for maintenance and upgrades on campuses.
- $7.0 million to support new domestic healthcare training programs.
- $2.0 million for planning a new Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus in Saskatoon.
Also, $435.7 million is earmarked for roads and bridges. Key initiatives include:
- $421.4 million for the construction and improvement of over 1,000 kilometers of provincial highways.
- Twinning and passing lane projects to improve traffic flow and safety.
- Repairing or rebuilding 18 bridges and over 100 culverts.
Parks and recreational areas will receive $12.5 million to create mew camping sites and service centers at various provincial parks and for infrastructure upgrades at Narrow Hills, Makwa Lake, Buffalo Pound, Greenwater Lake, and Danielson Provincial Parks.
The province’s Crown corporations are receiving a combined $2.8 billion to support growth and maintain essential services. Specific allocations include:
- $1.7 billion for SaskPower to enhance the electricity grid.
- $510.3 million for SaskEnergy to maintain and upgrade the natural gas system.
- $590.5 million across other Crown corporations like SaskTel, SGI Canada, and SaskWater.
