WINNIPEG, Man. — A joint contribution of $84 million from Manitoba’s elected officials and the federal government will enable work to continue on the expansion of the Red River Floodway.

This project will continue to provide significant flood protection for the residents of Winnipeg, West St. Paul, and East St. Paul. Upon completion the project will help ensure the safety and security of Manitobans, while contributing to the ongoing economic development of the province.

Construction began in September 2005. To date, work on the project has included excavation of the east embankment gap near Grande Pointe and channel excavation from the Inlet to the PTH 59 South Bridge, along with construction of the Trans-Canada Highway East Bridge, the PTH 59 South Bridge and the Sprague Railway Bridge.

“The additional funding will go towards tendering additional channel excavation work and ensure that the project remains on schedule as it moves forward. Again this spring, the floodway prevented over $2 billion in flood damages when it was operated to reduce flood water levels in Winnipeg,” stated Premier Gary Doer.

The funding announcement brings the total project cost to $324 million. The Government of Canada’s contribution comes from the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund, which supports large-scale projects of major national and regional significance in areas that are vital to sustaining economic growth and supporting an enhanced quality of life for Canadians.