WEYBURN – Work on Highways 13 and 39 has started and is expected to improve safety and traffic efficiency, representatives from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways told Weyburn City council during their regular meeting on March 24.
The estimated $29 million investment will see approximately 5.8 kilometres of Highway 39 twinned and a roundabout installed at the intersection of Highways 13 and 39.
“This is a great project and I look forward to seeing it move ahead,” said Mayor Jeff Richards.
Josh Kerr, senior project manager for the provincial department of highways, said the multi-year improvement project includes passing lanes, a roundabout and paving.
“We are doing this is to improve the safety and efficiency of the corridor,” he said, adding that they have heard a number of concerns from area residents about the safety of the intersection. “It has been a thorn in everybody’s side for a long time.”
Kerr said that the project will support Weyburn and southeast Saskatchewan’s economy.
A roundabout for the intersection was the preferred option by stakeholders, according to a department of highways survey. The roundabout will be able to accommodate oversized double 53-foot semi-trailers. They are typically only allowed on a four-lane highway system.
“We are planning on future development. If Highway 39 ever gets twinned all the way," said Kerr.
Potzus Paving, out of Yorkton, was awarded the contract and construction started in March. The two-year project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2026, with the roundabout finished in the fall of 2025 and the twinning completed by the fall of 2026.
“When the project is finished highway travel through Weyburn will be better, safer, and more efficient,” said Brad Hannan from the Ministry of Highways.
Coun. Kellie Sidloski asked for clarification on where funding for the highway improvements is coming from. Hannan said the project is funded through a partnership with the provincial and federal government and there hasn’t been any cost to the city so far.
Coun. Laura Morrissette asked the Ministry of Highways to provide educational material to residents on how to safely navigate traffic circles, adding that residents aren’t used to roundabouts in the area.
