Manitoba infrastructure minister endorses new Brandon road access despite department's collision concerns
CBC
Manitoba's infrastructure minister overruled the advice of his own department to approve a highway access he was warned could increase collisions.
A recent briefing note provided to Doyle Piwniuk stressed that adding a new entrance onto 18th Street in the southwest corner of Brandon — one of the city's busiest roads, also known as Highway 10 — would increase the likelihood of accidents and may degrade a wetland. The proposed access also features turning lanes that would be shorter than standard policy.
"Adding an intersection at this location will increase collisions," the briefing note said, suggesting that access to a new proposed development could come from the less-busy Patricia Avenue instead.
Despite his department's rationale, Piwniuk approved a permit for the access, with conditions, in August, according to a document obtained by CBC News.
The street access has been sought unsuccessfully since 2016 by VBJ Developments, which is behind a proposed mixed-use development including retail/commercial units and residential housing. It's slated for the corner of an undeveloped parcel west of 18th Street and south of Patricia Avenue.
The development is a source of contention among Brandon ratepayers. It's one reason, along with future growth, the city needs a $30-million debenture for wastewater infrastructure upgrades and a double-digit percentage increase in water rates annually.
Kris Desjarlais, a city councillor representing Brandon's downtown, said the infrastructure department's objections give credence to his push for another public hearing on the debenture — a type of unsecured long-term financing.
"I can't speak for the minister. I would like to know what went into making that decision because I'm a councillor, I'm not an engineer, and I want to be assured that we are still following expert advice when we're moving forward with this development," said Desjarlais, who is facing two challengers as he seeks re-election in Ward 2 on Oct. 26.
Piwniuk did not provide much of an explanation for overruling his department. His spokesperson Miranda Dube said it follows further discussions with the City of Brandon and local stakeholders "regarding the continued rate of growth and development of the city."
She said the access would support current and future development and result in economic development.
Piwniuk was not made available for an interview.
His spokesperson added the terms and conditions of the minister's permit are being addressed. The access along 18th Street has since been endorsed through a city council resolution and the developer has submitted a traffic impact study and drainage plan, which are under review.
Desjarlais said the access point and subsequent development may be good for the city, but he has questions.
"It's OK to disagree with your administration. We disagree with our administration sometimes when it comes to decision-making," he said.
This First Person column is the experience of Shannon Flaman, who lives in Red Deer, Alta. For more information about CBC's First Person stories, please see the FAQ.
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