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This week
DAR R E L L N E SBIT T / CR O SSR O ADS T H IS W E E K The Yellowhead U15 Chiefs picked up one of a possible six points in their three games played in the Winnipeg AAA Hockey League over the long weekend, falling to last place in the process. Forward Carter White of Virden battles his way into the slot during action against the visiting Parkland Rangers on Friday, Feb. 14. Parkland moved past the Chiefs in the standings after securing a 4-3 win on the night.
M unicip a lities unite to a dvoca te for H igh w a y 45 RAC HEAL FLIN TO FT Cro ssro a d s This W e e k
Municipalities across the region, including Rossburn Municipality, the Municipality of Russell Binscarth, the Rural Municipality (R.M.) of Riding Mountain West, and Waywayseecappo First Nation are coming together to urgently address the future of Highway (Hwy) 45, a key route that connects their locations.
Municipal leaders, along with a representative from Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure (MTI) gathered on Feb. 11, to tour the highway between Russell and Waywayseecappo and discuss needed upgrades to RTAC (Roads and Transportation Association of Canada) standards, a critical step for improving safety and accessibility. “The condition of Hwy 45 has become a significant concern for our daily commuters,” said Glenda
Lemcke, CAO of the R.M. of Riding Mountain West. “It impacts everything from healthcare access to the safety of our children.” She spoke passionately about the long-standing need for provincial attention and action. For over three decades, local leaders have struggled to communicate to provincial authorities the urgency of the highway’s deteriorating state. About 25 years ago, when the railway was removed, traffic di-
verted to the highway. On account, other regions that faced similar shifts received upgrades to their roads, but Hwy 45 lacked the same attention. “Despite over 30 years of municipal governance, we still face unresponsive provincial leaders,” Lemcke stated. “This highway’s importance cannot be overstated.” The Hwy 45 corridors have been full of issues, from poor road conditions that make daily commutes
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risky, to slowing access to healthcare, affecting both residents and the broader local economy. Freight trucks find it challenging, and accidents have become a concerning pattern. Along with all stakeholders, Lemcke is calling for action. “We’re advocating to upgrade Hwy 45 from Russell to Oakburn. It is necessary to meet the demands of our local haulers and businesses.”
SEE R O AD SAF E T Y , PAGE 2