The Portage la Prairie overpass above Highway west of the city will be replaced. (GOOGLE STREET VIEW)
WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government is looking for public input on options to replace the ageing overpass west of Portage la Prairie.
The piece of infrastructure at the Trans-Canada Highway and Provincial Trunk Highway 1A was built in 1968 and is below modern height standards.
Several vehicles have collided with the bridge in recent years, as shown above in the photo captured by Google Street View, which resulted in the closure of multiple lanes at one point.
“This traffic exchange is a key part of the Trans-Canada Highway network, an important route for Manitoba’s economy and tourism,” said Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler.
“The deteriorating bridge has exceeded its design life at 50 years old and needs to be replaced to ensure vehicles will pass through the area in a safe and timely manner.”
An open house is scheduled in Portage la Prairie for Wednesday, February 26 at Stride Place, 245 Royal Road, between 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
The session will give motorists and residents the opportunity to discuss safety enhancements, potential access modifications and temporary detours, as well as land-use plans and development in the municipality and surrounding area.
A second open house is planned for early April to present potential designs and to further engage with local governments, impacted landowners and stakeholders.
Following an interchange study’s completion later this spring, construction is planned for June 2021 t0 November 2022.
