Winnipeg, MB - Winnipeg's local streets, back lanes and sidewalks will receive additional, dedicated funding in 2014, as the City of Winnipeg takes steps to continue implementing a long-term plan to fix and maintain neighbourhood streets.
The 2014 Preliminary Budget calls for a one per cent property tax increase to be dedicated entirely to the repair of Winnipeg’s neediest local streets, back lanes and sidewalks.
“In 2013, City Council endorsed a long-term vision to repair our local streets and move into a regular cycle of maintenance, instead of endlessly trying to play catch up,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “We know fixing our streets is a key priority for Winnipeggers. The 2014 budget builds on a long-term plan to get this work done.”
The Local Street Renewal Reserve resulted in 16 streets, 2 back lanes and an additional $500,000 in local sidewalks being repaired in 2013. The 2014 budget will make $48.9 million available for local street renewal, an increase of 148 per cent over 2012 pre-program levels.
“This budget puts forward a strategic plan to fix residential streets that are in poor condition,” said Councillor Russ Wyatt, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance. “The enhanced local streets budget allows our Public Works Department to add dozens of streets annually to the lists of streets that can be repaired.”
The process of selecting streets includes consultation with Councillors, and reviewing candidate projects identified within their wards. In 2013, the Manitoba Government matched the City’s spending from the Local Street Renewal Reserve.
“Setting aside funds for local streets is of great importance to the citizens of Winnipeg,” said Councillor Justin Swandel, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works. ”Winnipeggers can see that the work needs to be done. This budget puts forward a plan to improve the condition of all our neighbourhood streets.”
The 2014 Budget builds on the City’s long-term plan to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens by renewing our infrastructure, focusing on core services, and building communities through parks and recreation.
Investing in citizens’ priorities ensures that Winnipeg continues to be a great place to live, work and play, now and in the future.
For more information on the 2014 Budget, please visit City of Winnipeg - 2014 Budget