Manitoba premier says Brandon's 'worst street' will be fixed by October

The province and City of Brandon have partnered to rehabilitate the town's infamous 18th Street.

The busy street was named the worst road in Manitobaby the Canadian Automobile Association in 2024.

"We are fixing the worst road in Manitoba," Premier Wab Kinew said at a news conference to announce the project Tuesday. "The pylons are up. Construction starts today."

The major street will have reduced lanesuntil October while the city resurfaces the stretch from Aberdeen Avenue to Rosser Avenue.

Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor said construction was originally scheduled to begin in 2028, but heavy spring rains moved the project timeline up.

"This partnership has helped ensure a safer roadway for residents, commercial vehicles and visitors to the area," Naylor said.

Mayor Jeff Fawcett reminded residents to be patient during rebuilding and take care to ensure the safety of road workers during construction.

"It's going totake a little while. It takes a little inconvenience. We know the end result is great,"the mayor said.

The rehabilitation of 18th Street will cost $9.7 million. The projectis fully funded by the province of Manitoba.