Province announces over $1M in infrastructure spending for Brandon

Three infrastructure projects in Brandon are receiving $1 million from the province.

The Manitoba government is spending just over $1 million to improve recreational facilities and recycling efforts in Brandon, Premier Wab Kinew announced Tuesday.

Andrews Field, a stadium which has hosted provincial and national events, is set to receive $400,000 to renovate changerooms and public washrooms.

Brandon Community Sportsplex will also receive $235,000 to resurface the asphalt parking lot, with $400,000 allocated to Brandon’s Eastview Landfill to help create a combined waste and recycling site.

“These investments support our goal of maintaining and improving infrastructure while keeping the cost down in Brandon,” said Jeff Fawcett, the city’s mayor, speaking at a news conference at the Brandon Community Sportsplex.

Fawcett said the provincial funds will help alleviate the municipal budget, allowing the city to reduce taxes by two per cent.

“A two per cent reduction in municipal taxes may seem small on paper, but for seniors, it can mean staying in their homes longer, managing their monthly bills with less stress, and having a little more room for essentials,” said Eleysha Klaassen, executive director of Brandon Seniors for Seniors Co-op Inc.

“It gives seniors and families a little more stability, a little more comfort, and a little more hope.”