Segment of westbound Portage Avenue reduced to one lane until spring

Winnipeg, MB – Westbound Portage Avenue between Strathcona Street and Empress Street will be reduced to one lane on Monday, November 25 to accommodate Manitoba Hydro work around Omand’s Creek.

The closure is expected to be in place until March 2025. Eastbound traffic is unaffected by the closure. Access to properties within the construction area will also be maintained.

Two Manitoba Hydro underground chambers, which contain important electrical equipment, were constructed in 1939 and need to be replaced. The work needs to be done in winter when there is the least risk of water entering the work area and damaging equipment or creating a safety hazard.

"Replacing the aging infrastructure now will prevent a possible failure later that could cause a significant power outage,” said Peter Chura, Manitoba Hydro Media Relations Officer. “We realize this creates a significant traffic disruption and we appreciate the public’s patience."

One Transit stop will be cancelled during the closure. Riders will have to board and disembark one stop earlier or later. Follow @TransitAlerts on X for details and updates.

Motorists are advised to allow additional travel time, use alternate routes to get to their destinations while the closures are in effect, and download the Waze app in advance and use it for real-time traffic updates.

For regular updates on City of Winnipeg lane closures and to view lane closures on an interactive map, please visit: City of Winnipeg - Regional Lane Closures.