The Manitoba government has announced a major infrastructure investment worth $115 million to upgrade Provincial Trunk Highway 2 (PTH 2) and several connected routes, including bridges and roads that are vital for farming communities, trade, and tourism. The upgrades aim to boost the local economy, improve road safety, and support rural development across the southern region of the province.

This massive project was confirmed through an official news release issued on Friday by Premier Wab Kinew and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor, as part of the government's ongoing commitment to improve Manitoba’s transportation infrastructure.

What is Provincial Trunk Highway 2 and Why is It Important?

Provincial Trunk Highway 2 is a key east-west route that stretches from the Manitoba–Saskatchewan border in the west to the outskirts of Winnipeg in the east. It runs through many rural farming communities and serves as an important link for transporting agricultural products, goods, and services.

The highway connects to several smaller roads and towns, and it’s also used by commercial vehicles, emergency responders, and tourists heading toward southern Manitoba destinations. With this route handling a significant amount of heavy truck traffic, wear and tear is a constant concern—especially during spring thaws when roadbeds are at their weakest.

What the $115 Million Will Be Used For

1. Highway 2 Rehabilitation

A large portion of the funding will be used to repair and replace damaged pavement, upgrade culverts, and strengthen road structures on Highway 2. This includes resurfacing old roadways and ensuring the highway meets modern safety and durability standards.

These repairs will make the highway more reliable for both everyday drivers and commercial transporters, especially during Manitoba’s harsh weather seasons.

2. Highway 5 Upgrades

The province will also rehabilitate 15 kilometres of Highway 5, located north of Highway 2. This is a crucial move because during the spring thaw, certain roads are restricted to lighter loads. With the improvements, heavier axle weights will be allowed, helping farmers and trucking companies carry full loads without delays or penalties.

This change will reduce fuel costs, improve efficiency, and support agriculture, which is one of the largest industries in Manitoba.

3. Highway 34 Grading and Safety Work

On Highway 34, which connects with Highway 2 and serves towns like Holland, the government plans grading repairs. This will fix slopes, stabilize the road, and address areas at risk of erosion or landslides. Currently, temporary guardrails and reduced speed limits have been put in place due to safety concerns.

The upcoming work will restore full safety to the highway and allow traffic to flow at normal speeds.

4. Two Major Bridge Replacements

Two aging bridges crossing the Assiniboine River will be fully replaced:

• Bridge #1 is on Highway 34, just north of the community of Holland.

• Bridge #2 is located at Spruce Woods, near the entrance to Spruce Woods Provincial Park, a major tourist site in the region.

These bridges are vital for connecting rural areas to cities and tourist spots. Upgrading them will ensure safety, support larger vehicles, and allow better emergency access during floods or harsh winters.

Statement from the Government

Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor emphasized that these upgrades are about more than just fixing roads. “We are investing in the long-term safety and prosperity of rural Manitoba,” she said. “Stronger roads mean safer travel, more jobs, and more support for our agriculture sector.”

Premier Wab Kinew added that good infrastructure is key to building stronger communities. “With these upgrades, we are showing that rural Manitoba matters,” he said. “This isn’t just a road project—it’s an investment in our people, our economy, and our future.”

Impact on Farming and Economy

Farmers often rely on these roads to transport crops, livestock, and equipment. Restrictions during spring make it harder to deliver goods on time. By lifting spring load restrictions and strengthening highways, the province is helping reduce transportation costs and support food supply chains across Canada and beyond.

Better roads also attract more investment. Businesses are more likely to open or expand in areas with strong infrastructure. The upgrades are expected to create hundreds of construction jobs and support local contractors, engineers, and maintenance workers.

Environmental and Tourism Benefits

By replacing older bridges and repairing worn roads, the province is also ensuring environmental safety. Older bridges can fail during floods or heavy rainfall, leading to dangerous conditions and river pollution.

Tourists visiting Spruce Woods Provincial Park, known for its sand dunes and hiking trails, will benefit from safer travel routes, possibly increasing visitor numbers and local tourism income.

The Manitoba government’s $115 million investment in Highway 2 and surrounding routes shows a strong commitment to rural growth, road safety, and economic development. With better roads and stronger bridges, Manitoba’s farming families, businesses, and travelers will benefit for years to come.

This project is more than roadwork—it’s about building a stronger future for all Manitobans.