The Regina Bypass was built to improve driver safety, improve a key component of the National Highway System, reduce traffic congestion in and around Regina, and, increase efficiency for truckers and shippers moving goods.
The need for a bypass was identified in the 1990s. Public and stakeholder consultation was a priority throughout the study process. The route selected received approval from the City of Regina, Balgonie, White City, Pilot Butte, Emerald Park, Edenwold and the Rural Municipalities of Sherwood and Edenwold.
Work on the project started on July 29, 2015. The project was complete on October 28, 2019. The Regina Bypass opened to the public on October 29, 2019.
The Regina Bypass was built as Public-Private Partnership (P3). With a P3, the team that builds the bypass must maintain it in "like new" condition for 30 years. This includes but is not limited to:
- Surface repair;
- Pavement marking;
- Repairing and replacing signs;
- Bridge/culvert repair;
- Ditch mowing, snow clearing, weed control, garbage pickup;
- Drainage control;
- Lighting and power costs;
- Acquisition of equipment, facility and staff.