The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to announce the completion of the Regina Bypass. The largest transportation infrastructure project in the province’s history opens this week, on time and on budget.
A ceremony was held today on the Bypass to mark the opening. Crews will complete a few finishing touches today before the route opens to traffic tomorrow. The Bypass will boost the provincial economy through the efficient movement of goods, reduce traffic congestion and improve safety.
It is estimated that reduced collision rates because of the Bypass will result in $2 to $3 million in annual cost savings from property damage, injuries and fatalities. The savings in terms of human suffering are incalculable.
One of the people on hand for today’s ceremony is Wanda Campbell, who lost her 17 year-old son Lane in a crash on Highway 1 East.
Safety was top of mind for the thousands of people who worked on the project.
The Regina Bypass had a nearly unblemished safety record during four years of construction. Crews worked nearly five million hours on the Bypass with just one lost-time incident.
That partnership extends to the people and local governments that supported the Bypass and patiently worked through the inevitable disruptions caused by construction.
All the Bypass partners wish to extend their thanks to the City of Regina and the Towns of Pilot Butte, White City and Balgonie. They also want to recognize the RMs of Edenwold and Sherwood and the Ochapawace, Cowessess and Zigame Anishinabek First Nations.
The Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $9 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2008.