Winnipeg, MB – Today, the City of Winnipeg issued a tender for construction that will allow pedestrians to cross the Portage & Main intersection at street level (an at-grade crossing).
This work will significantly change operation of the intersection to facilitate the safe movement of pedestrians, vehicles, and cyclists through the intersection. It includes:
- Demolishing and removing the existing barrier walls
- Installing new traffic signals and streetlights
- Adding a curb extension on the southeast corner to allow for shorter pedestrian crossing distance across Portage Avenue and more pedestrian space at the corner
- Repairing and adjusting existing medians
- Installing new curbs and sidewalks throughout the intersection to accommodate pedestrian crossings on all four corners of the intersection
A more detailed listing of the major construction components is available for viewing on the City’s Bid Opportunities site – reference Tender No. 675-2024.
The successful proponent will be required to develop a detailed work plan; however, work is expected to occur concurrently on all four corners of the intersection.
The successful proponent will be responsible for establishing a site accessibility plan, which will outline how it intends to maintain access to the businesses in the area during construction with as little disruption as possible.
The successful proponent is expected to fully cooperate with other construction work scheduled or currently underway near the intersection, as well as special events. Paying attention to pedestrian and vehicle safety will be a key responsibility of the contract.
The tender is anticipated to be awarded on November 8, 2024.
Construction is expected to start by November 15, 2024.
Work is anticipated to be substantially complete by June 20, 2025, and fully completed by June 27, 2025. This will facilitate the subsequent launch of Winnipeg Transit’s new Primary Transit Network on June 29, 2025. The at-grade pedestrian crossing is expected to open by July 1, 2025.
Future phases of street-level redevelopment at Portage & Main
In March 2024, Council approved the recommended design vision for the Portage & Main intersection, with the addition that it include street-level pedestrian crossings.
Additional design work at the intersection will be included in the upcoming Rapid Transit (Downtown Corridors) Preliminary Design Study, expected to begin in 2025.
This study will integrate Winnipeg Transit infrastructure into the final design of the intersection for Council’s consideration of the project and budget.
Additional information
For more information about Portage & Main redevelopment, please consult: winnipeg.ca/portageandmain.