FAQs
Why are you considering an active transportation corridor through the St. Boniface area?
A key direction of the Pedestrian and Cycling Strategies (PCS) is to develop local bike networks in each neighbourhood that connect to the existing network and to the Downtown. This project would provide an east-west walking and biking connection from east Winnipeg through St. Boniface to Downtown. Work on the project was approved in the 2019 Pedestrian and Cycling program as part of the Capital Budget.
On what street will you put the active transportation corridor?
As part of Phase 2 engagement, we asked for feedback on three possible routing options west of the Seine River. Based on what we heard from stakeholders and the public, technical information and analysis, and other planning considerations, we selected Provencher Boulevard as the proposed route.
We are also recommending a route east of the Seine River along Nadeau Street, Notre Dame Street, La Fleche Street, and La Verendrye Street connecting Thibault Street to Archibald Street.
What kind of bike infrastructure is included as part of this project?
The proposed route includes protected one-way and two-way protected bike lanes, multi-use pathways, and neighbourhood greenways.
Will this project affect Winnipeg Transit routes in the area?
Transit stops along Provencher Boulevard align with the Winnipeg Transit Master Plan. The proposed design would consolidate existing transit stops and includes future transit stop locations at Tache Avenue, Rue Aulneau, St. Jean Baptiste Street, and Rue Nadeau. The transit stops would feature a transit island, where the bicycle lane is raised to the level of the sidewalk and pedestrians cross the raised bicycle lane to access the transit stop. The bicycle lane would be narrowed at these locations to promote slower cycling speeds through the transit stop area.
Would there be a loss of on-street parking and/or loading zones because of the proposed route?
Construction of the proposed route would see the loss of eight on-street parking spaces on the north side of Provencher Boulevard between the railway tracks and bridge. This is to accommodate two travel lanes and a bike lane within the existing road right-of-way. In addition, one on-street parking stall may be lost near the access to the Franco Manitoban Cultural Centre on Provencher Boulevard to open up sight lines at a potential conflict point.
Will there be impacts to trees because of the new bike infrastructure?
Four trees currently located in the median adjacent to left-turn lanes would require removal. We will investigate further to determine whether additional tree losses could occur from potential root damage caused when narrowing the median. We will also assess locations where trees can be added as part of this project so there is no net loss of tree canopy.
When would the project be built?
The timeline for construction is unknown as the design has not yet gone before Council for consideration. Construction would only occur once Council approves the design and identifies funding for final design and construction.
Winnipeg is a winter city; why are we putting in bike lanes?
The City’s Council-approved Pedestrian and Cycling Strategies commits to providing and maintaining safe walking and cycling facilities year-round. Winter maintenance and operation, including snow storage, were considerations in the development of options. The proposed route on Provencher Boulevard is suitable for all-seasons use. Snow storage or snow removal may be required. The east route would require enhanced winter maintenance.