Portage and Main reopening costs rising

The cost of reopening Portage and Main to pedestrians is rising.

A new report from Winnipeg City Hall says the total budget is now $21.2 million, an increase of $8 million.

The report states that only one company bid for the contract. It is stated that the cost overrun was due to the “unique” nature of the project, the rushed timeline to complete the work and “market conditions”.

The city wants the interchange to open from July next year to coincide with major changes to public transportation routes.

The report states that, if approved, additional funding will come from street and sidewalk renovation budgets.

The Public Works Committee will vote on the new costs next week.