Federal infrastructure funding to help YWG drive Manitoba’s economic and social recovery

February 10, 2022

Categories: At YWG

Winnipeg Richardson International Airport has received a $5.3 million commitment from the Government of Canada to support several infrastructure improvement projects across the airport campus.

Dan Vandal, the federal Minister of Northern Affairs and Member of Parliament for the Winnipeg electoral district of Saint Boniface-Saint Vital, announced the investment on February 10 along with Annie Koutrakis, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport.

“As Manitoba’s primary airport, Winnipeg Richardson International Airport is a key transportation hub not just for the Greater Winnipeg Area, but for much of Manitoba and the North,” said Vandal. “Our government’s infrastructure investment at our airport will help ensure communities in Manitoba and the North continue to have access to safe and efficient air transportation services so Manitobans as well as Northerners can remain connected with loved ones.” 

The COVID-19 pandemic has put considerable financial pressure on the airport. This investment from the federal government will help to keep YWG moving forward. Winnipeg Airports Authority plans to use the funds to build an active transportation path along Wellington Avenue, reconstruct Flight Road as well as enhance security monitoring systems and screening both inside and outside the terminal. Permanent COVID-19 testing and lab facilities will also be created at the airport to further support the safety of travellers and employees working on campus.

“We’re pleased to be partnering with the federal government to provide these additional new services,” said Barry Rempel, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. “These funds will go a long way in helping our community grow. It’s a good day for Winnipeg. It’s a good day for Manitoba.”

The funds are being provided through Transport Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, which was launched in May 2021 to help the country’s airports invest in projects related to safety, security or connectivity. The announcement is in addition to the roughly $7 million earmarked for YWG by the Government Canada last July to support the rehabilitation of taxiways, other airfield surfaces and access roads

YWG has also received $5.7 million from Transport Canada’s Airport Relief Fund to help maintain airport operations and rebuild the region’s connectivity. WAA has seen a revenue shortfall of $162 million since the start of the pandemic.

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