The Manitoba government has issued an $18.3-million tender to add new passing lanes on Provincial Trunk Highway 8 between PTH 67 and Gimli, a project aimed at improving safety and traffic flow in the busy Interlake corridor.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor said four sets of passing lanes, each about two kilometres long, are planned for completion by fall 2026.
“Traffic has significantly increased on PTH 8 over the past few years, limiting passing opportunities for drivers,” said Naylor. “This investment will enhance traffic safety, reduce collisions and save lives while also ensuring continued access for businesses, residents and those visiting the area.”
Gimli Mayor Kevin Chudd said the municipality welcomes the provincial investment, calling PTH 8 “more than a highway—it’s a lifeline for our residents, businesses and visitors.”
“The addition of four new passing lanes between PTH 67 and Gimli will improve safety, reduce congestion, and enhance access to essential services,” Chudd said. “For local businesses, especially those in tourism, hospitality and retail, these upgrades support reliable transportation for customers, suppliers and staff.”
The mayor said the improvements will have a direct impact on Gimli’s tourism economy, which relies heavily on safe and efficient travel.
“Gimli is a cherished destination known for its lakeside beauty, cultural heritage and year-round events,” Chudd said. “Tourism is a cornerstone of our local economy, and safe, efficient travel is essential to maintaining and growing this sector. The improvements to PTH 8 will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable journey for visitors, encouraging repeat visits and supporting the businesses that rely on seasonal and weekend traffic.”
The province noted the project is part of a wider slate of work in the Parkland-Interlake region this year, which also includes:
• a 45-kilometre rehabilitation on PR 224 near Fisher Bay,
• six kilometres of surface treatment on PR 239 west of PTH 6,
• 23 kilometres of reconstruction on PTH 6 near Fairford River,
• 20 kilometres of rehabilitation on PTH 5 between PTH 20 and PTH 10, and
• 13 kilometres of rehabilitation on PTH 10 between PR 367 and PR 271.
Chudd said the RM has long identified safety concerns on PTH 8, with increased traffic volumes leading to limited passing opportunities and driver frustration.
“The new passing lanes will help alleviate these issues by providing safer overtaking zones, reducing the likelihood of collisions and improving overall traffic flow,” he said.
He added that the RM has been engaged in dialogue with Naylor’s office throughout planning.
“We commend the province’s efforts to listen to community concerns and align the project with local needs,” he said.
Looking beyond Highway 8, Chudd said the municipality is focused on other key infrastructure priorities over the next five years, including watermain renewal partnerships with the Manitoba Water Services Board and joint efforts on designated provincial roads such as Centre Street, 1st Avenue and North 5th Avenue.
While temporary disruptions are expected during construction, Chudd said the municipality will work closely with the province to minimize inconvenience for residents and businesses.
“The improvements to PTH 8 will benefit the entire Interlake region by enhancing connectivity, safety and economic opportunity,” he said. “Communities that rely on Gimli for services, recreation and commerce will enjoy more reliable access, while regional tourism and transportation networks will be strengthened.”
Naylor said the work supports Manitoba’s multi-year infrastructure investment strategy, which maps out priorities in roads, bridges, airports and flood protection over the next five years.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do,” she said. “Whether it’s families heading to the lake or trucks delivering goods across the region, Manitobans deserve roads they can rely on.”
