WINNIPEG - March 14, 2008 - The Public Works Department is monitoring road conditions and this week began using three pothole patching machines (Roadpatchers) and three cold-mix hand asphalting crews to repair potholes that have started to appear on City streets. Currently, patching efforts are focused on main routes (Regional streets), particularly in curb lanes where water and runoff may accumulate. Thawing and freezing of this runoff impacts the number of potholes, and Roadpatchers are being utilized in all areas to complete repairs as quickly as possible. Crews will continue to patch potholes this weekend. Next week, the number of Roadpatchers in use will be increased to six, to facilitate keeping streets in a clear and drivable condition.

Director of Public Works Bill Larkin says, “Crews will be working this weekend to fix potholes and the City will increase pothole patching efforts as required as the springtime thaw continues.”

The public is encouraged to report pothole locations by contacting 311 (4653). Pothole locations can also be reported online at winnipeg.ca/publicworks.

The City would like to remind the public to use caution around crews and heavy equipment operating throughout the city over the coming weeks.

Potholes occur in a couple of ways – both relate to melt water during the spring thaw and cracks in the road surface:

1.) Melt water seeps through cracks in the road surface and can soften the sub base under the pavement to the point where the sub base can no longer support the pavement above it and the traffic loads placed on it; and

2.) Melt water seeps into cracks in the pavement and/or into the sub base and then freezes when temperatures drop. This is referred to as a freeze/thaw cycle. These freeze/thaw cycles occur repeatedly during the spring season. The freezing causes the sub base to expand which can cause sufficient pressure to cause localized pavement failure (a pothole); similarly water in the cracks or in between concrete and bituminous (asphalt) overlays can freeze causing pieces of pavement to ‘pop’ out.

WINNIPEG - March 14, 2008 - The City of Winnipeg would like to notify patrons that certain sections of the Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex (CKRC), located at 999 Sargent Avenue, will re-open to the public on Sunday, March 16, 2008 as construction to the complex continues.

On Sunday, March 16, 2008, the public will be able to access the front lobby, change rooms, washroom facilities, the pool area, club rooms, and weight room. The number and type of weight room equipment available will be reduced to accommodate the ongoing construction to the complex.

The former track that was housed in the basement area of the building will no longer be available. The multi-purpose room will be open to accommodate spring programming. The main entrance has been temporarily relocated to the east side of the building with immediate access from the parking lot.

For patron safety, signage will be posted throughout the complex as a reminder to patrons that construction continues and, as required, to advise patrons of changes made to access routes within the complex. We request and appreciate your patience and cooperation as construction proceeds.

Since October 2007, the existing complex has undergone extensive upgrades to numerous mechanical and service systems in preparation for the new development to the complex. These upgrades include: water and sewer service; security alarms; fire alarms and HVAC systems; piping for the fire suppression/sprinkler systems; emergency light and alarm systems; and the other electrical and mechanical systems. Additionally, the existing complex has been repainted, and repairs have been made to the pool bulkheads, dive platforms, locker rooms, and the club house.

Excavation and foundation work for renovations to the complex that include the addition of the new West End Library, the expanded and enhanced lobby/entrance, and the second level track and fitness area are underway.

Patrons will be able to register for the spring Learn-to-Swim program that commences the week of April 6, 2008 at the CKRC, by calling the complex at 311 or by registering online at winnipeg.ca/leisureonline.

For further information on project updates, building and site improvements, please visit the City of Winnipeg’s website at winnipeg.ca/.

Background

Funding for the renovations to the CKRC facility is a joint partnership between the City of Winnipeg, The Government of Canada, and the Province of Manitoba funded through the Canada-Manitoba Infrastructure program. Relocation of the West End Library to the renovated CKRC facility is funded by the City of Winnipeg. Funds are provided under Component II – Building Better Neighbourhoods, of the Winnipeg Partnership Agreement (WPA). The WPA supports the revitalization of older neighbourhoods and the development of projects that respond to community needs. Total project cost is estimated to be $8.4 million.