The Government of Saskatchewan is investing more into improving highways in smaller cities across the province including Lloydminster.
The province announced they would be adding another $3 million into their Urban Highway Connector Program (UHCP) for a total of $10 million over two years. The program provides assistance to municipalities for maintenance, operation and rehabilitation of the roadways. Some rehabilitation projects in Lloydminster, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Meadow Lake, Humboldt, Yorkton, Moose Jaw and Estevan have already been earmarked in the program’s multi-year plan.
When asked for clarification on projects, the government said the Ministry of Highways is discussing potential projects with the City of Lloydminster and will release more information when an agreement is reached.
The projects are a part of the province’s target to improve more than 1,000 km of provincial highways this year as well as their 10-year Growth Plan to build and upgrade 10,000 km of highways in Saskatchewan.
“We committed to making the investments necessary to ensure a strong economic recovery for our province,” says Premier Scott Moe. “This funding boost will create jobs, enhance safety and support transportation infrastructure in our municipalities.”
The Ministry is also making a change to the program and will take over 100 per cent of maintenance and rehabilitation costs for urban connects as of April 1, 2021. Changes are also being made to how funding is doled out to Regina and Saskatoon.
UHCP was created in 2008 and more than $200 million has been invested in improving highways in the province through the program.