Work on the Red River Floodway bridge along Highway 200 is now underway. On October 15, the bridge was closed to traffic and will remain closed until the project’s completion approximately one year from now.

According to Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure (MTI), the existing narrow passage across the bridge makes staged construction impossible to carry out safely, making a full closure necessary.

“Construction will continue throughout the winter months to meet the project’s anticipated completion in fall 2026,” says an MTI spokesperson.

Once completed, the bridge should be serviceable for another 40 years. The new bridge design is expected to significantly widen the roadway.

Next to the bridge, a new parking area is being created for access to the nearby Duff Roblin Parkway Trail.

The highway closure will require approximately 12 months of detours for commuters who regularly use this route. MTI recommends travelling via Highway 75 or Highway 59 in the meantime.

In recent months, MTI made some intersection improvements at Highway 75 and Highway 210, at Highway 210 and Highway 200, as well as at Highway 210 and Highway 59 in order to accommodate anticipated traffic increases in these areas.

The total estimated project cost comes to $38.5 million.