The Manitoba government is planning to build a roundabout at the intersection of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 16.
Premier Brian Pallister says the goal is to improve safety and traffic flow at the intersection, “Driver safety is our main concern, as there have been several collisions at this intersection over the years, and we have started a comprehensive review study on possible options to address safety concerns.”
There are currently traffic lights at the intersection west of Portage la Prairie, where the Trans-Canada Highway meets the Yellowhead Highway to the north and Provincial Road 305 to the south. The study will guide the design of a roundabout to improve the safety and operational efficiency of the intersection.
“We want to improve the safety for everyone on Manitoba roads and we’re exercising due diligence in considering permanent safety solutions,” said Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler. “We’ve identified the intersection of the Trans-Canada and Yellowhead highways as a priority project and our investment will make the intersection safer and more efficient, as well as create construction jobs for Manitobans to help our economy rebound.”
The minister noted the study and design will be complete in October 2020.
Schuler noted the province recently implemented interim safety measures at the intersection including additional pavement markings, installation of a dedicated turning lane, improved signage and traffic signal upgrades.
Funding for the intersection upgrades are part of the $500-million Manitoba Restart Program, an economic stimulus package to help restart Manitoba’s economy and ramp up construction in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The province has earmarked $65 million for major highway projects.
