Released on February 21, 2005
The provincial government and the City of Prince Albert have reached an agreement on cost-sharing for the rehabilitation of the Diefenbaker Bridge.Under the agreement, the provincial government will contribute $430,000 as its share of the work completed in 2003 and 2004.
"The provincial government and the City have worked co-operatively to achieve a mutually acceptable agreement and bring closure to this issue." Prince Albert Carlton MLA Myron Kowalsky said on behalf of Highways and Transportation Minister Maynard Sonntag. "The provincial government has consistently maintained that we will honour the 1958 agreement."
"We are pleased that the department of Highways and Transportation has honoured the 1958 agreement," Prince Albert Mayor Jim Stiglitz said. "The City looks forward to continuing our positive working relationship with the Department of Highways."
The Diefenbaker Bridge is owned and operated by the City of Prince Albert. Under the terms of the agreement that transferred ownership of the bridge to the city, the province is responsible for 50 per cent of structural rehabilitation to the bridge. Discussions between the City and the provincial government regarding cost-sharing for the recent deck replacement project have been on-going for several months.
"The provincial government and the City recognize the need to work together on initiatives of mutual interest, such as a Regional Transportation Study that will identify and prioritize transportation needs in the Prince Albert area," Prince Albert Northcote MLA Eldon Lautermilch said. "Transportation is an enabler of economic development and it is important that all levels of government ensure the transportation system stimulates opportunities in areas like forestry and the potential diamond industry."
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For More Information, Contact:
| Doug Wakabayashi Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4804 | Colin Innes City of Prince Albert Prince Albert Phone: (306) 953-4900 |