The City of Brandon is embarking on a significant infrastructure project this summer, focusing on the reconstruction of a segment of 26th Street between Victoria Avenue and Park Avenue. The existing pavement structure on 26th Street has deteriorated, necessitating a comprehensive overhaul. However, this reconstruction also provides an opportunity to reimagine the street, ensuring movement for all modes of transportation, including transit, walking, cycling, and cars. Aligned with City Council’s strategic direction to improve connectivity in the community, City Administration is actively exploring the integration of missing Active Transportation (AT) links. Our goal is to establish an active transportation corridor along 26th Street, extending from Maryland Avenue to Pacific Avenue. This corridor will feature dedicated bike lanes and multi-use pathways, connecting various parts of the city. Key Components of the 26th Street Reconstruction Project: Repair of Underground Utilities: The project includes repairing and replacing wastewater and water mains, and water services. Pedestrian Crossing Signals: The pedestrian crossing signals at J.R. Reid School will be upgraded to enhance safety for students and pedestrians. Traffic Signal Replacement: The existing traffic signals at the intersection of 26th Street and Park Avenue will be replaced, improving traffic flow and safety. Sidewalks and Pavement: The project involves excavation and replacement of sidewalks and the pavement structure. Proposed Bike Lane: As part of the redesign, a dedicated bike lane is proposed to encourage cycling and promote movement for all.   Community Engagement – How You Can Participate in the Conversation Join Us for an Informative Open House: Mark your calendars! On March 20, we invite you to a Come and Go Open House at the Keystone Centre (MNP Hall A) from 4 to 8 p.m. This event provides an excellent opportunity to engage in discussions about the citywide vision for movement. We’ll delve into ongoing initiatives, including the 26th Street reconstruction project.  Follow-Up Meeting: After reviewing your feedback, we’ll host a follow-up meeting on Thursday, April 4th at Vincent Massey High School from 6 to 8 p.m. During this session, we’ll provide updates on the next steps for the 26th Street project. If you are unable to attend any of these events, please provide feedback by emailing or calling the numbers provided below. Thank you for being an active participant in our community’s growth and development!  Who Can I Call With Questions? For more information contact: Project Lead – Active Transportation - Lindsay Hargreaves l.hargreaves@brandon.ca or 204 729 2171 Project Assist – City Plan - Sonikile Tembo s.tembo@brandon.ca or 204 729 2523 Construction of 26th Street - Teresa Grime at t.grime@brandon.ca or 204 721 0684 Construction of 26th Street - Kyle Winters at k.winters@brandon.ca or 204 729 2126 Learn more about the 26th Street Reconstruction Project at brandon.ca/information-happenings/development-services-initiatives/active-projects/reconstruction-of-26th-street-park-victoria-avenue-project.

On Monday, March 11, 2024, the Board of Trustees met to review and finalize the 2024-2025 School Year Budget. The final 2024-2025 School Year Budget and the 2024 Special Levy was approved as follows: Total Operating Expenses $ 132,429,365 Total Capital Expenses $ 5,683,401 Total Expenses $ 138,112,766 2024-2025 Special Requirement $ 55,647,181 2024 Special Levy to be raised from Municipalities $ 51,026,880 The 2024-2025 Operating Budget results in a 6.61% increase in the Special Requirement, a 4.05% change in the Special Levy, and a 2.92% increase in the mill rate for 2024 or a net annual increase of $25.36 on an average single-family home valued at $281,000 that is a homeowner’s principal residence. For complete details regarding the 2024-2025 School Year Budget, please visit: Developing Our 2024-2025 School Year Budget (bsd.ca).

On March 10th at 10:51 pm Police conducted a traffic stop in the 1800 block of Richmond Avenue.  A 36-year-old male was arrested as it was learned he had just assaulted his 41-year-old ex-girlfriend who was in the vehicle. He was released for court on May 23rd, 2024. No serious injuries were reported.

Police conducted a traffic stop at approximately 5:24pm in the 300 block of 14th St. The subsequent investigation lead to the discovery of approximately 2oz. of cocaine and 25gr. of Meth. A 37yr old Brandon man has been charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking and will appear in Court in May. A 36yr old female was also charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, as well as Take Motor Vehicle without Consent and Failing to Comply with her Release Order. The Minnedosa, MB resident will appear Court today.

Assault Peace Officer / Fail to Comply with Undertaking At approx. 3:30 AM Saturday, a taxi pulled up to the Emergency Department of the Brandon Regional Health Centre with a highly intoxicated female in the car.  The driver of the taxi spoke to police officers who were there on an unrelated matter, requesting assistance.  The officers attempted to assist in getting the 26 year old female out of the taxi and she became assaultive by kicking at the officer.  As the officer continued efforts to get her out of the taxi the female bit the officer on the hand. The female was arrested for assault peace officer, further investigation has revealed that she is not abiding by an Undertaking which stipulates that she observe a daily curfew.  The female is being held at the Brandon Police Service until sober at which time she will be released with a court date of May 23. Assault Peace Officer   At approx. 5:20 AM Saturday, officers were called to an address on Lark St for a highly intoxicated female causing a disturbance and refusing to leave. Prior to police arrival the female had gone outside and was throwing snowballs against the windows.  Officers attended and arrested the 22 year old female.  During arrest she kicked one of the officers and was therefore charged with assault peace officer.  She will be held until sober and then revealed with a court date of May 23.