Warm, dry summer means Regina's road construction on schedule

It seems to be a rare treat that road construction is ahead of schedule, but thanks to this summer’s predominantly hot, dry weather that’s exactly what the City of Regina is experiencing.

 

“A lot of major projects are ahead of schedule or we’re done ahead of time,” said the city’s director of roadways and transportation Norman Kyle.

 

Work on the Ring Road and on the McDonald Street bridge were done ahead of schedule he outlined. Kyle is predicting construction on Dewdney Avenue, Wascana Parkway and McCarthy Boulevard will be finished ahead of time as well.

 

He estimated about 60 per cent of this summer’s projects are complete and everything’s on target to get finished. That will allow crews to focus more on fixing alleyways, both gravel and paved, along with repairing water main breaks.

 

Drivers are being reminded to slow down in these construction zones.

 

“Even if they’re doing 40 instead of 30 they can kick up gravel and stuff like that. It can sting the guys pretty good at those speeds,” Kyle indicated.

 

He explained vehicles going too fast is not necessarily a problem but it is a concern.

 

As far as the newly created Residential Road Network Renewal program is concerned, Kyle said two-thirds of the $7.5 million budget is spent. Over half of the money is used to address roads in fair condition. He said the program is about preventative maintenance. Roads in poor shape need to be totally rebuilt, which is a lot more costly to do.