The City of Regina launched it’s 2020 construction season Thursday with the announcement of a $79.5 million investment for different transportation, water, wastewater and drainage projects.
Mayor Michael Fougere said that the investment is a reassurance that the city will continue to provide critical services for residents.
“Particularly during this difficult time, our construction program insures a significant amount of employment for our community, which is so needed at this time,” said Fougere. “We know that this is top priority for residents, and to this end, we continue to invest each year on construction.”
Most capital construction projects are set to begin in early June, while some multi-year projects have already started, including the Victoria Avenue Infrastructure & Beautification Project, and Albert Street South.
The Mayor added that with the pandemic still front and centre, the city will be taking new approaches to how construction work is done this year.
Some of the approaches for the 2020 construction season include incentive or milestone payments for the completion of work in contracts, allowing variable hours of work including nights and weekends, using a variety of construction techniques to help reduce duration and disruptions, and the advancement of construction and maintenance projects in areas like downtown to take advantage of the reduced congestion on our roads as many people are still working at home.
“We’re also keeping the public top of mind in exploring new ways to get the work done,” said Fougere. “You’ve heard me say this before several times in the past year, that we will do work differently this year, and that will happen.”
Fougere also took time to encourage and thank drivers for obeying speed limits in construction zones.
“As we do every year, I want to thank our drivers for slowing down in construction zones,” said Fougere. “It’s important to keep workers safe, both for the private sector and city crews.”
The Road Report has been significantly updated from last year’s version, and it is now easier to identify where work is taking place. The Road Report on Regina.ca includes restrictions and closures on high-traffic roads, some collector streets and in the downtown. Visit Regina.ca/roads.
