Provincial Advocacy

Regional Infrastructure Development

Issue

The infrastructure deficit in Manitoba is still growing despite efforts to add dollars to both the Provincial and Municipal capital budgets.

In June 2014, the Partnership of the Manitoba Capital Region, (which has been meeting since 1999 and includes representatives from Winnipeg and 15 surrounding municipalities), released its’ transportation planning blueprint (list of highway-construction priorities for the next 25 years) that's supposed to dovetail with the city's own transportation plan and help the province make decisions.

Infrastructure development is an important economic engine for the province, which includes 18 municipalities. This region's infrastructure impacts the whole province as most export volume to the USA passes through the region, and most businesses in the province utilize resources from this dominant economic region of the province with a short-term view to the outcomes and long-term benefits. 

Currently, there is a lack of coordination and cooperation in planning regional infrastructure in the region and a short-term view of the outcomes. 

Resolution

That the Provincial Government work to improve the integration and coordination of its infrastructure expenditures, recognizing the benefits of connecting the entire province's infrastructure and major highways. 

Submitted by the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce Government Relations Committee

Initially adopted by Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, May 2015

Renewed by Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, May 2018

Renewed by Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, May 2022

Renewed by Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, May 2025

Transit Services beyond the Perimeter

Issue

The build up of both commercial and residential development, just outside of the Manitoba Capital city's boundaries but within the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region, is seeing rapid growth and economic expansion supporting both employment lands and healthy family lifestyles. Consistent with a smart regional transportation plan is providing alternatives such as transit service for employees going to and from work in these new economic areas as well as families travelling between home and the City of Winnipeg. These expansion and development areas all offer no such opportunities to connect and support areas north, south, east, or west of the city. The existing 'siloed' policy and operating environment perpetuates the 'travel by car' environment that is the only option available for these areas. In the near term, this will notably limit the services into the CentrePort Canada lands as well as west of the city where there are many recreation and hospitality options for families. 

Background

John Blumberg served almost continuously on Winnipeg City Council between 1919 and 1961. Before his time on Council, John was a streetcar motorman. For part of his time on Council, John was Chairman of the Greater Winnipeg Transit Commission. 

The City of Winnipeg is budgeting for and advancing the services to CentrePort Canada lands that will support its continued expansion, including much needed residential housing, and connections with the RM of Rosser. 

Opportunity

The irony of John Blumberg being a former Chairman of the Winnipeg Transit Commission is not lost. It would be a fitting first step in a revitalized transit plan that provided transit service beyond the perimeter to serve the growth and rapid development associated with the Assiniboia Downs, Red River Exhibition, the ice-plex, the cemeteries, the Birchwood Auto-park, the hotel developments in the area and access to the Blumberg lands. After voting 13 to 3 not to sell Blumberg, City Council should look for a shared services agreement and implement regular transit service to Blumberg which is just outside of Winnipeg, and the Assiniboia Downs neighbourhood which is inside Winnipeg. The Blumberg lands and Assiniboia Downs neighbourhood have major recreational facilities. It is important that Manitobans from all walks of life have proper access to these recreational facilities. 

As a second step, the implementation of a route network serving the CentrePort Canada lands would be appropriate prior to the housing being constructed so families know they will have choices for travel prior to their housing purchase. 

Resolution

That the provincial government works to improve the integration and timely coordination of its regional infrastructure expenditures with municipalities, recognizing the benefits of improved communications to connect the entire province's infrastructure for a vibrant and sustainable economy.

Submitted by the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce

Adopted by Manitoba Chamber of Commerce, May 2022

Renewed by Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, May 2025