Transmission tower replacement project now visible near Portage la Prairie

Portage residents may notice more construction activity in the coming weeks as Manitoba Hydro ramps up work on a major transmission line replacement project.

The Brandon–Portage la Prairie (BP6/BP7) transmission line is being rebuilt after more than 50 towers were severely damaged during a devastating windstorm in October 2019.

Since the storm, electricity in the area has been supplied through a temporary wood pole transmission line running along the Trans-Canada Highway. That temporary fix is now being phased out.

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Peter Chura, media relations officer with Manitoba Hydro, says the project has now entered its next major phase.

"Foundation installation was completed by a contractor this spring and summer," said Chura. "Work has now shifted to tower assembly. The contractor started southwest of the city near the Portage Diversion and is working their way northeast to the existing Portage Saskatchewan Station on the east side of Portage."

Due to new development and updated right-of-way requirements since the original line was built over 50 years ago, the permanent line is following a new route, developed through public consultation.

The project is becoming more visible to local residents, particularly as construction moves through the island area and alongside Brandon Avenue. Manitoba Hydro has coordinated with the City of Portage la Prairie to create alternative traffic routes and detours.

Short, intermittent closures are also expected on the Portage Bypass, Saskatchewan Avenue East, and Angle Road as old towers and lines are dismantled.

In November, Manitoba Hydro crews will begin stringing new wires. That work, along with the removal of the temporary wood pole line, is expected to be completed by December.