The Manitoba government is piloting round-the-clock snow clearing on Winnipeg’s Perimeter Highway in a move aimed at improving safety and keeping traffic moving during major winter storms.
The province and the Manitoba Government and General Employees’ Union have signed a memorandum of agreement allowing 24-7 winter maintenance operations on Provincial Trunk Highways 100 and 101, known collectively as the Perimeter Highway.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor said the agreement will allow crews to respond more quickly when severe winter weather creates a significant public safety risk.
“This agreement is about keeping Manitobans safe and moving when winter weather hits,” Naylor said. “Bringing back 24-7 snow clearing on the Perimeter Highway means crews can respond faster during major storms and provide a higher level of service when our communities need it most.”
According to a provincial spokesperson, when the province is aware of a forecast major winter event — such as a blizzard or heavy snowfall — maintenance crews would be scheduled in advance to provide 24-hour coverage.
The goal, the spokesperson said, is to reduce both the frequency and duration of highway closures during extreme weather events.
While the province oversees winter maintenance, road closures are initiated by the RCMP and can be triggered by several factors, including poor visibility or motor vehicle collisions. The spokesperson said the RCMP would have more detailed information on the specific parameters used to close highways.
The agreement took effect Jan. 22 and allows the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to activate continuous snow clearing on an as-needed basis when major storms are forecast or already underway. Operations would be carried out using two 12-hour shifts to provide around-the-clock coverage.
MGEU president Kyle Ross said the agreement recognizes the demanding and often dangerous conditions faced by highway maintenance workers.
“MGEU members work hard to keep our roads safe and clear,” Ross said. “This agreement supports 24-7 snow removal when it’s needed, helping keep the Perimeter Highway open for those who rely on it.”
The province noted that since the agreement was signed, there has not yet been a snowfall significant enough to require activation of continuous snow removal.
Officials said the pilot project is expected to reduce weather-related disruptions on one of Manitoba’s busiest transportation corridors and improve overall winter driving conditions during extreme events.
