Residents and business owners in Winnipeg’s south Osborne neighbourhood are expressing frustration and confusion as traffic congestion returns due to resumed construction on the St. Vital Bridge. The project, which initially began in 2022 and was believed to be completed last fall, restarted this spring, catching many by surprise.
City officials report that crews still need to apply a protective coating to the bridge’s steel girders and finish landscaping and ditch work. The remaining work is expected to wrap up this summer.
Local business manager Parysh Blakney, of Osborne Auto Service, voiced her disappointment after enduring years of construction disruptions. The recent return of heavy traffic and impatient drivers has led to safety concerns as motorists increasingly use side streets and business parking lots as shortcuts.
Diane Papineau, a resident who commutes across the bridge daily, said her travel time for short errands has quintupled. She advocates for nighttime construction to minimize the impact on daytime traffic.
Despite the discontent, public works committee chair Janice Lukes emphasized the necessity of the work, pointing out that the upgraded bridge will last 60 to 75 years.
Adding to the city’s infrastructure challenges, the Louise Bridge remains closed after unexpected corrosion was discovered during routine inspections. Originally slated to reopen midweek, the closure has been extended to Monday while additional inspections and repairs are completed. Restoration of the 115-year-old bridge is planned by 2030, aiming to prolong its life by 30 years.
Meanwhile, construction on the Pembina Highway overpass at Abinojii Mikanah has also begun, with disruptions expected to last until fall 2026, contributing further to Winnipeg’s season of traffic headaches.
Swifteradio.com
