COLUMN: Report from the Legislature – Safety enhancements needed in Dawson Trail

I want to take this opportunity to discuss some much-needed safety enhancements throughout Dawson Trail.

The intersection of Highway 12 and Provincial Road 210 in Ste Anne is a major safety concern, as numerous accidents have occurred at this location over the years. Making improvements to this intersection has been a top priority for me during my time as an MLA. I have sent a number of letters to the Minister expressing the safety concerns with this intersection, and requesting that improvements be made to protect the safety of Manitobans. The provincial government officially made the decision to include upgrades to the Highway 12 and Provincial Road 210 intersection as part of their 2026 construction plans. It is unfortunate that it has taken this long to make safety improvements to the intersection as accidents continue to occur, but I am glad they are finally taking place, and I look forward to seeing the completion of this project.

There have also been a number of safety concerns about PR 206, particularly with regard to the intersections of PR 206 and PR 207, and PR 206 and the Trans-Canada Highway. Both of these intersections have been the location of numerous accidents. The intersection of PR 206 and Highway 1 is particularly concerning as it serves as the primary access point to the Centre of Canada, a well-known tourist destination that garners approximately 1,500 visitors daily during the summer months. This high-traffic area is expected to only increase in traffic volume as future developments to the tourist attraction and surrounding properties take place, making it imperative that safety enhancements are implemented to protect the well-being of residents and visitors. When discussing the intersection of PR 206 and PR 207, constituents have raised the concern that a hydro pole has created a significant blind spot that they believe has contributed to a number of the accidents occurring at this location. I have sent letters to the Minister regarding both intersections, and I will continue to follow up on these matters until proper safety improvements have been implemented.

Another major safety concern regarding PR 206 and PR 207 is the lack of safety measures for pedestrians. These roadways run through the towns of Landmark and Lorette, respectively, and are commonly used by children walking to and from school. Many concerns have been raised about the speed limits on these roads, particularly in areas where there are no sidewalks and children are walking along the highway. The RM of Taché is currently seeking to reduce the speed limit of PR 206 from 60 km/h to 50 km/h, and PR 207 from 70 km/h to 50 km/h, while maintaining the existing school zones for both highways. There are plans in place for a 12.1 km surface reconstruction project for PR 206, spanning from the south junction of PR 210 to Highway 1. The resurfacing project will focus on traffic volume patterns and safety improvements at the intersection of PR 206 and Highway 1. I have contacted the Minister asking that consideration be given to incorporating additional safety measures for pedestrians as well.

Safety is a top priority, and as your MLA, I will continue to advocate for the constituents of Dawson Trail and ensure that your voices are being heard, and your concerns are being addressed.

For more updates and information, visit my website at boblagasse.com. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact my constituency office at ca.lagasse@outlook.com or 204-807-4663.