Manitoba’s Premier announced Thursday a further $500 million aimed toward righting the province’s economic ship in light of COVID-19. The money will be directed to a variety of infrastructure projects as part of an economic stimulus package to help restart the province’s economy.

“We believe these projects are vital to the growth of our communities across the province,” noted Premier Brian Pallister. “These projects will improve the service we provide to Manitobans, they will improve the quality of life for all Manitobans. We know the Manitoba construction industry, like all of us, has experienced a downturn in demand, in recent weeks and months, but we also know our Manitoba heavy construction industry and other construction industry participants are ready to work.”

The $500-million investment through the Manitoba Restart Program will expand on the significant already-planned infrastructure investments of $3 billion over the next two years. The program will include new water and sewer projects; road and highway resurfacing/repairs; bridge repairs; municipal priorities and potential new cost-sharing construction projects with other levels of government if agreements can be reached.

“Today’s announcement builds on our commitment to ensure critical funding to Manitoba municipalities as promised in Budget 2020 remains intact, despite unprecedented financial pressures on the provincial government and record borrowing levels,” said Pallister.