Reconstruction and paving work on Fifth and Sixth avenues in Gimli’s South Beach neighbourhood has been postponed after the original contractor informed the municipality it could not complete the project this fall.
The two streets have been in poor condition for several years, and the RM of Gimli had identified them as a priority for renewal in 2025. Road reconstruction typically runs from May to October, as temperatures can affect asphalt stability.
Maple Leaf Construction had been awarded the contract earlier this year, but scheduling issues prevented the company from completing the work before the end of October.
In a notice to residents posted Oct. 1, the RM said no road renewal construction would take place this year.
“Although we explored options to begin work this fall, the contractor, Maple Leaf Construction, has confirmed they will complete all road renewals in early June 2026, once provincial road restrictions are lifted,” the notice said.
Fifth and Sixth avenues were among several projects slated for completion between late September and October, including Keenora Drive, Goldfield Drive, Lakeshore Drive, Ramsay Road and the lane running along Gimli Beach.
Some South Beach residents expressed disappointment when they learned of the delay. A post shared on local social media pages described the two streets as being in poor condition and called for more communication and oversight of municipal projects.
At council’s Oct. 8 meeting, Deputy Mayor Kurt Reichert acknowledged residents’ concerns and apologized for the disruption.
“Deputy Mayor Reichert acknowledged the disruption caused by the delay, thanked residents for attending and sharing their concerns, and expressed regret that the situation unfolded as it did,” said RM communications lead Christine Payne. “He reaffirmed council’s commitment to resolving the issue swiftly and ensuring the work is completed to the standard expected.”
Mayor Kevin Chudd joined the meeting by phone to participate in the discussion.
Payne confirmed that council was made aware of Maple Leaf’s delay on Sept. 26, when administration received notice from the company and provided a full project timeline.
A new contractor, Whiteout Group — a Winnipeg-based commercial and municipal property maintenance firm — has since been hired to complete the South Beach work.
“Work is scheduled to begin on Oct. 10, with an expected completion timeline of approximately two weeks,” Payne said.
