Inside City Hall – Investing In Safe and Efficient Streets

Please see the following article from City of Brandon City Manager Ron Bowles.

As the city manager, I am acutely aware of the critical role that our streets and roads play in shaping the well-being of our community. Beyond mere aesthetics, they form the backbone of our daily lives, connecting neighborhoods, businesses, and public spaces. After a particularly hard winter on our asphalt, a vital commitment to safety and prosperity is critical, and our city crews are up to this daunting challenge. Today, I want to emphasize how the city manages a strategic commitment to safety, efficiency, and economic vitality, by providing some statistics from last year.

Did you know:

352 km of streets and lanes are managed, repaired, and maintained by the city,
In addition, the Province manages 65 km,
12,979 potholes were filled last year and thus far 9,299 have been repaired in 2024,
332 km of streets are swept, cleaned and our storm drainage system is kept debris free,
In 2023, 5.6 km of roads were replaced, and 4.5 km were re-coated,
20 km of back lanes and streets are graded,
143 km of sidewalks and trails are managed,
Approximately 11,000 signs are maintained, and
Summer road, lane, sidewalk, and trail program costs each resident $35.43 per year ($0.19 per day during summer months).
Safety-first as our streets are more than just thoroughfares; they are lifelines. Whether you are commuting to work, dropping your kids off at school, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, safe and well-maintained streets are essential. Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces pose risks to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike. By addressing these issues promptly, we ensure the safety of everyone who uses our roadways.

Efficient transportation is the lifeblood of any thriving city. Imagine a scenario where traffic congestion slows down emergency responders, delivery trucks, and daily commuters. It is not just an inconvenience; it affects our productivity, quality of life, and overall economic competitiveness. Regular maintenance—whether filling potholes, repaving roads, or improving signage—keeps traffic flowing smoothly and reduces travel time for all. Businesses thrive when their customers can access them easily. Well maintained streets attract visitors, shoppers, and investors. Conversely, neglected roads deter economic growth. Potentially lost revenue due to poor infrastructure far outweighs the cost of routine maintenance. By investing wisely in our streets, we create an environment where businesses can flourish, jobs can be created, and our local economy can thrive.

As stewards of the future, the City is committed to funding these critical services and to leave a legacy for our children. We combine municipal budget allocations, provincial and federal funds to ensure that our streets receive the attention they deserve. For example, we have recently received funding from the Province to assist with the reconstruction of 26th Street.

We recognize we had a tough winter with numerous potholes emerging due to an extraordinary spring freeze-thaw cycle. Our Streets and Roads Department works tirelessly year-round so, the next time you drive down our city streets, remember that each pothole filled, each road repaired, and each sidewalk maintained contributes to a safer, more efficient, and economically vibrant community. Together, let us pave the way to a better future—one street at a time.