The intersection of Highways 1 and 16 will see a roundabout be constructed to improve safety. (GOOGLE STREET VIEW)
The Manitoba government is moving ahead with long-standing plans to improve safety at the intersections of the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 16.
Premier Brian Pallister announced Thursday the busy intersection west of Portage la Prairie will see a roundabout be constructed beginning next spring.
“Our goal is to improve safety and traffic flow at this significant intersection, where Manitoba’s two major east-west strategic economic corridors connect,” said Pallister.
“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.”
Pallister said three people have died in the past five years at the intersection.
The intersection is currently controlled by traffic lights where the Trans-Canada Highway meets the Yellowhead Highway to the north and Provincial Road 305 to the south. The plan is to construct a roundabout at the location, similar to the model used at the intersection of Highways 2 and 3 near Oak Bluff.
Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler says a 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.
The project is part of the $500-million Manitoba Restart Program, which includes $65 million for major highway projects, including the recently announced Perimeter Highway and St. Mary’s Road interchange.
