Saskatchewan's Transportation network supports provincial economy
by Martin Charlton Communications Martin Charlton Communications

Saskatchewan’s Transportation Network Supports Provincial Economy

Safe, reliable transportation infrastructure is not just “nice to have” in Saskatchewan, but it’s how our province competes in the global market, ensuring the people of the province enjoy a high quality of life. 

That message was delivered by Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill when he spoke at the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s Business Conference in May. His presentation, “Transportation: Sharing Saskatchewan’s Food, Fuel and Fertilizer with the World,” explained what was contained in the latest budget to develop that transportation infrastructure and how earlier commitments had been fulfilled. 

Saskatchewan’s transportation infrastructure allows it to meet the world’s needs by safely and efficiently shipping our commodities from agriculture, mining and forestry to the world at competitive rates. Saskatchewan ships to 165 countries around the world and in 2021, the province exported a record $37 billion in goods, Cockrill explained.

Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill
Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill

He said his government recognizes the need for shippers to have timely and predictable access to markets, and that most of what is produced here travels south to the U.S., east to Manitoba or west to B.C., making our relationships with other provinces vital. A memorandum of understanding between Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba was signed in April to strengthen economic corridors that support our supply chains. “Our cooperation makes Canada better,” said Cockrill. 

The MOU commits the provinces to investing in and joining solutions to improve highways and rail networks, he said. The three provinces will cooperate to encourage the federal government for infrastructure funding and national supply chain solutions and harmonize regulations to support businesses, industries and shippers.

Growth is his government’s “north star,” said Cockrill, and that growth benefits all in the province. He said his government has its books in order and was able to retire $1 billion in debt when other governments have not because of the bounty Saskatchewan is fortunate to enjoy.  Cockrill also highlighted what the latest provincial budget contained for investment in Saskatchewan’s transportation network, saying it is about more than kilometres of highway. It’s about what that network means to the people, businesses and communities of the province. 

The transportation network includes Saskatchewan’s 26,000 kilometres of highways, but also bridges, culverts, ferries, ice roads, gravel roads and more. Then, there are the municipal networks operated by municipalities. The province’s transportation network is “an incredible asset” built by the people of the province, said Cockrill, including the men and women who work for the Ministry of Highways who are very proud of how they contribute to that network connecting people and goods. He said they work hard every day to make that network safe, efficient, reliable and sustainable. 

The $422 million his ministry is investing in capital projects this budget will support economic growth and that benefit flows to all in the province, Cockrill said. The overall capital budget is smaller than previous years because a two-year stimulus program that saw the province release $300 million in new highways projects ended in 2022. That stimulus program saw investments in hundreds of kilometers of thin-membrane surface highways, numerous highway passing lanes, community airports and more. 

Cockrill referenced Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan, saying his government is now in the fourth year of that plan, which committed the government to improving 10,000 kilometres of highways over a decade. After this year, it will be ahead of schedule, Cockrill said.

Saskatchewan’s transportation infrastructure allows it to meet the world’s needs by safely and efficiently shipping our commodities from agriculture, mining and forestry to the world at competitive rates. Saskatchewan ships to 165 countries around the world and in 2021, the province exported a record $37 billion in goods.

Major projects this budget invests in include beginning construction of twinning projects near Rowatt and Corinne on Highways 6 and 39 between Regina and Weyburn. There is the construction of passing lanes and widening of Highway 5 from Saskatoon to Highway 2 and planning for construction that will extend twinning on Highway 5 east of Saskatoon to support traffic going to BHP’s new facility. Upgrades are being made to Highway 15 east of Kenaston between Highways 11 and 2. Then, there is the planning for the third phase of the Saskatoon Freeway functional study. 

Safety is a major focus of work being done by the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure. Cockrill pointed out that it has been five years since a bus carrying members of the Humboldt Broncos hockey team was struck by a semi-trailer, killing 16 people and injuring 13. After that incident, an engineering review was completed, resulting in 13 recommendations to improve safety at the intersection of Highways 35 and 335, where the crash occurred. Work to implement all those recommendations will be completed this year.

Other intersections and road safety matters also got attention and investment at the conference. This year, the government will have fulfilled its commitment to spend $100 million over five years to work on turning lanes, streetlights, flashing warning lights, rumble strips, crosswalks and sightline improvements. This work often had a big impact on communities, Cockrill said. Other contributions to improving safety include spending millions on pavement marking, increasing the budget for signs and ditch mowing. 

Almost $63 million will be spent to repair and rebuild bridges and replace over 100 culverts across Saskatchewan. Major bridge projects include replacing the Montreal River Bridge on Highway 2 in the La Ronge area as well as rebuilding the Highway 6 bridge over the Ring Road at the south end of Regina. 

Cockrill encouraged those present at the conference to learn from an example out of Moosomin for “how to get stuff done” in the province. Moosomin’s airport needed improving so the air ambulance could land on the runway, which was too short. So, patients were being transferred by ambulance to Virden, Man., where Saskatchewan’s air ambulance could land. 

Many residents from the Moosomin area worked together to stay in contact with the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure office to explain their situation. A partnership was formed in the area between various municipalities as well as a local employer, Nutrien, which the province joined to provide $1.3 million to extend the runway. 

Cockrill encouraged communities and regions who have a project to discuss with government to contact him about their concerns to make him aware of the opportunity to meet. He said this budget provided urban municipalities $6.6 million and rural municipalities $15 million to support their transportation needs. 

Cockrill spent some time explaining the investment being made in northern Saskatchewan and its significance. He said this budget invests $89.4 million to build, operate and maintain the transportation system in northern Saskatchewan, including gravel road improvements on Highway 924 northeast of Green Lake and continuing to work on Saskatchewan’s portion of the Garson Lake Road. A one-time investment of $6 million for gravel work and brush clearing supports the northern population and the province’s forestry industry, which Cockrill said is an important sector for the province that is poised to grow because of private investment. 

He said because the provincial highway network is the largest per capita in the country, the ministry must maximize how long those assets are in use. There is 230 kilometres of repaving to be done all over the province and other work is being done to more than 600 kilometres to extend the life of those highways, Cockrill said.

The growth Cockrill sees in the province is exciting and investing in infrastructure is an important factor in that growth. The economic prosperity has allowed the government to invest in twinning highways, safety improvements and northern roads while providing support for municipalities – all while paying down the provincial debt. The growth is attracting people to locate in Saskatchewan, Cockrill said, because of the province’s opportunities and affordability. 

Cockrill and Prabha Ramaswamy, the CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, were asked questions by some in the crowd during the conference. Cockrill was asked what was being done with Saskatchewan’s transportation network to ensure the agriculture and mining sectors remain competitive. 

He emphasized the importance of safety improvements, including passing lanes that allow producers to move equipment while others commute between communities. The government is advocating for more prairie voices on the board for the Port of Vancouver because so much of what is produced in this province must be exported through that port, Cockrill said. He also pointed to his government receiving intervenor status after gateway improvement fees were introduced at the Port of Vancouver, saying those fees unfairly penalize bulk shippers in the province.

Finally, Cockrill was asked what the provincial government is doing to promote sustainable transportation. He again pointed to the investment in northern Saskatchewan, saying many northern communities have a single road to get in and out. Recent fires in that part of the province demonstrate the need for people to be able to get out when they must. Investing in flood mapping is another way the province helps prepare communities. 

As for electric vehicles, Cockrill pointed out that the gas tax is a source of revenue for the province to be able to maintain highways, although what is spent on highways exceeds what is collected. The government implemented a fee to ensure that as drivers transition to EVs, the revenue generated by the fuel tax was replaced. The private sector is stepping up to add charging stations along highways, he said.

Someone else asked about innovative construction materials for highways and roads. Cockrill described a surface treatment for gravel roads, but said for highways, there doesn’t appear to be a silver bullet. That being said, they continue to work with consulting engineers to ensure highways are built properly so they last longer.  

Containers with the flag of Canada. Railway transportation. 3d rendering
by SHCA SHCA

Infrastructure Investments Support Canada’s Future Strength

Takeaways from the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s Business Conference

By Martin Charlton Communications

Canada is at an inflection point and, if our nation is going to keep up in the world, we’ll have to make some important choices that will determine the quality of life that future generations will enjoy in this country, according to Goldy Hyder, speaking to a crowd of business leaders gathered in Regina.  

Hyder is the president and CEO of the Business Council of Canada. He spoke at the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s Business Conference in May, delivering a presentation titled, “Building Our Future: A Call to Action.”

The Business Council of Canada supported and contributed to the report by the Canada West Foundation (CWF), From Shovel Ready to Shovel Worthy: The Path to a National Trade Infrastructure Plan for the Next Generation of Economic Growth. The Western Canada Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) helped initiate the report, which was endorsed by numerous associations and organizations concerned with the current investment, the lack of coordination (and planning) on a long-term strategy and the state of the federal trade corridors fund. 

When the Shovel Ready report was released last year, Hyder said, “Strategic investments in infrastructure – including roads, bridges, airports, rail lines and port facilities – are essential to helping businesses compete, grow and create more jobs for Canadians.

“In a world where our supply chains are increasingly exposed to geopolitical risks, Canada needs strong transportation and trade corridors so that it can supply the world with the products it needs to achieve both our economic and environmental goals,” said Hyder.

During his speech in Regina, Hyder said the world will not wait for Canada. He explained his appreciation for Western Canada, where “you can see the economy in action” with people working hard to produce fuel, fertilizer and food to supply the world. He described Western Canadian people as those who solve problems and bring about positive change. There is a bounty available across the prairies, he said, pointing out the potash, oil and gas, uranium and agricultural technology that is produced here.

Hyder is concerned about how we move those goods through the country and beyond to the world markets, and he wonders whether it is possible to build and support all the infrastructure required by the country to be competitive on the world stage – the highways, bridges, ports, rail terminals, electrical grids and more. He described this infrastructure as forming “the arteries of our economy” and being the “heart and soul of moving things around.”

“In a world where our supply chains are increasingly exposed to geopolitical risks, Canada needs strong transportation and trade corridors so that it can supply the world with the products it needs to achieve both our economic and environmental goals.”

– Goldy Hyder, Business Council of Canada

Constructing this infrastructure creates well-paying jobs, not just during construction but also after, due to the trade that construction enables. Those present at the conference were reminded that Canada is a trading nation, with 60 per cent of our gross domestic product (GDP) relying on trade. Hyder pointed out how what is produced in one province also generates  the GDP of at least one other province in the country, creating jobs across jurisdictions. He said we must continue to ask ourselves if we can get our goods to market efficiently and effectively and whether the commitment to do massive energy projects (that will allow for a low carbon future) is there.

Canada’s recent track record isn’t sending a confident message to the world, Hyder said. He pointed out the visit by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in August 2022. Germany was concerned about its population being able to warm their homes because of the country’s dependence on Russian natural gas and the invasion of Ukraine. Germany needed to determine which country shared its values and had the resources and capacity to successfully make a trade.

Canada was its first choice, but Hyder said that rather than focus on delivering the liquefied natural gas (LNG) Germany needed, the federal government wanted to look at the future by discussing hydrogen, which would be available in an estimated three years. 

That decision, he said, overlooked Germany’s immediate need to secure LNG because a cold winter was months away. So, Germany found what it needed in Australia, signing a 16-year agreement (which Hyder said showed that Germany does not agree hydrogen will be a viable option within the timeframe Canada proposed).

Canada’s focus on a carbon-free future – and projects to support that – has created a gap. Hyder said Canada must recognize that there is a real need for energy now that can’t be backfilled with renewable energy options anytime soon, making a transition period necessary. While it is important to look at where the puck is going, Hyder said you should also know where it is now and take advantage of both opportunities. 

Hyder encouraged business leaders to speak up about the challenges they face that the government has a role in addressing – labour shortages, approval delays and more – and how those challenges are limiting growth, which has an impact on communities and the population.

That situation with Germany sent a message to Canada’s allies: we are not prepared to supply them. Hyder said Japan has urged Canada to play a role in its energy needs while a senior government official in Korea has wondered if our country is choosing to hoard the energy products needed by the world to move towards decarbonization. Other diplomats have expressed similar confusion about Canada, Hyder said.  

One reason for this is our difficulty getting our products to market. 

Permitting at the federal level has also caused issues for those trying to develop projects, including those producing green energy. Hyder described the Bay of Fundy project that Sustainable Marine halted because of federal bureaucracy. This project’s technology worked to generate power from the energy of the world’s highest tides to put into Canada’s electrical grid. Millions of dollars were invested, and millions of federal tax dollars in funding were secured for the project. 

There were, however, concerns at the federal level about the technology’s potential to harm marine species, which baffled Sustainable Marine. Hyder said a lack of transparency and no regulatory pathway at the federal level led the company to suspend the project. 

Permitting is a major concern of those investing in projects in Canada and could become even more critical if the U.S. achieves what it has planned.

Permitting is a major concern of those investing in projects in Canada and could become even more critical if the U.S. achieves what it has planned. Hyder relayed what he heard from the president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Suzanne Clark. During a visit to Ottawa, Clark described how the U.S. is aiming to approve most projects in seven years while complex projects could take up to 10 years to be approved. 

That would put incredible pressure on Canada to react because otherwise capital is going to funnel to the U.S. to develop infrastructure there. That is not a political decision, but a business one, Hyder said. Investment flows to where there is the least resistance and projects form there. Those who miss out on this investment also miss out on the taxes that would have been paid, the social programs that would have been supported and the jobs that would have been created.  

He pointed out Canada’s earlier reputation of being great at building major projects that helped to modernize and advance our economy so that we could provide a quality of life that attracted people from around the world to want to locate here. The examples he provided opened within the last 65 years.

For example, the Trans-Canada Highway opened in 1962 to become one of the world’s longest highways, passing through all the provinces. The Montreal-Lake Ontario Section of the St. Lawrence Seaway was completed in 1959. The Trans-Canada pipeline – carrying natural gas across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec – was the longest in the world until the 1980s. Developing that infrastructure was vital to having a unified country. Hyder questions whether there would be 10 countries instead of one if Canada was founded today. 

He encouraged the business leaders listening to ask if we have the vision to build modern infrastructure that connects supply chains to move goods, lowers carbon emissions, supports job creation and ensures our economy continues to grow. He said the federal government is making statements that building big matters and permitting must be more efficient to allow projects to move ahead faster, to decarbonize and develop critical mineral projects. 

The Business Council of Canada had high hopes for the 2023 federal budget, and it said the federal government will propose steps to ensure effective reviews of major projects that support the growth of Canada’s clean economy, while upholding high standards for the environment. This included a plan to improve the efficiency of the impact assessment and permitting processes. Many in business agree that these steps need to be taken but are now waiting for actions to confirm that will occur, Hyder said.

Practical ideas for how the government could address this are in a Business Council of Canada report, titled Innovate, compete and win: A roadmap for Canada’s energy transition. The report sets out how the public and private sectors can work together on the most critical elements that will drive the country’s economic and environmental security.

It points out the case for fast-tracking projects that are in the national interest and meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Contribution to global energy security
  • Ability to substitute Canadian products for more greenhouse gas (GHG)-intensive options in importing countries
  • Low-carbon fuel production (e.g., hydrogen, renewable natural gas, biofuels and uranium)
  • Electricity transmission within and between provinces that would lead to a net decrease in GHGs
  • Development of low-carbon electricity (e.g., renewables, nuclear, battery storage, pumped hydro)
  • Critical mineral mining and processing facilities
  • Projects that are Indigenous led, have an Indigenous ownership component or have Indigenous support based on early engagement by the proponent

The private sector is leading with major employers committing to being net zero by 2050, according to Hyder. While not all have completely worked out what they will do to achieve net-zero, there are many interested in supporting the innovation required to meet that goal. Canada has the capacity and know-how within the energy and natural resource sectors, which have already proven we can lead the world in innovation, he said.

There is leadership in action within the private sector, but they need willing partners in the public sector to expedite projects to benefit all Canadians by providing a more predictable regulatory process. That includes one review per project rather than requiring multiple reviews by various levels of government or provinces, Hyder said.

He explained the need for provinces to discuss their interdependence. For example, Saskatchewan depends on British Columbia’s ports to export its commodities. Saskatchewan has an interest in port expansion because without it, what it is producing will be exported through the U.S., which means handing over the decision about when those commodities will be sent out to another country.  That, Hyder said, is “outsourcing our sovereignty.”

Canada should be developing the infrastructure needed to lead growth, Hyder said, instead of a cycle of infrastructure catching up to growth. That infrastructure needs to support trade – both exports and imports – while also modernizing so we have the digital infrastructure the rest of the world is adopting. 

Hyder encouraged business leaders to speak up about the challenges they face that the government has a role in addressing – labour shortages, approval delays and more – and how those challenges are limiting growth, which has an impact on communities and the population. Business leaders need to speak up because they can’t wait for academics, which take years, and media to point out the problems. Politicians need to be reminded of the positive impacts of businesses – including generating tax revenue that supports healthcare and education, said Hyder.

He has faith that the Canadian population is prepared for an intelligent conversation about these concerns and that, by framing the conversation around what is fair and what supports this country, maintaining its sovereignty will help people focus on what matters to bettering our future. 

SHCA The Interchange - Default background
by SHCA SHCA

News From the Field

Sharing news that SHCA members need to know

CAA 2023 top 10 worst roads

From April 4 to 25, 2023, Saskatchewan road users – including pedestrians, motorists, cyclists, transit riders and motorcyclists – nominated and voted for their worst, unsafe roads. The common safety concerns for worst, unsafe roads are crumbling pavement, potholes, lack of maintenance or repair, congestion, not enough signage and poor infrastructure.

Here are the CAA 2023 Top 10 Worst Roads:

  1. Saskatchewan 44, Eston
    Major problem: Potholes
  2. Saskatchewan 30, Eston
    Major problem: Potholes
  3. Coteau Street West, Moose Jaw
    Major problem: Potholes
  4. Highway 13: Redvers
    Major problem: Potholes
  5. Saskatchewan 5, Buchanan
    Major problem: Poor road maintenance
    (#5 in 2022 CAA Worst Roads campaign)
  6. Butte Street, Pilot Butte
    Major problem: Potholes
  7. Saskatchewan 9, Whitewood
    Major problem: Potholes
  8. Saskatchewan 123, Petaigan/Ravendale/Pemmican Portage
    Major problem: Potholes
  9. Highway 9, Hudson Bay
    Major problem: Potholes
    (#3 in 2022 and 2021 and #5 in 2018 CAA Worst Roads)
  10. Old Highway 35, White Fox
    Major problem: Potholes

A total of 292 roads were nominated and voted on during this year’s CAA Worst Roads campaign. These included roads and highways from across the province that have made CAA’s Worst Roads Top 10 list in previous years such as Saskatchewan 47 Springside (#2 in 2022 and #2 in 2018), 9th Avenue Southwest in Moose Jaw (#10 in 2022 and in 2018), as well as some new additions including Regina’s Connaught Street, Weyburn’s 1st Avenue Northeast, and Wanuskewin Road in Saskatoon. The collection of roads nominated and voted during this year’s campaign indicates that Saskatchewan road users are concerned about their safety while travelling on our roads and highways, with this year’s top 10 list indicating the roads that received the majority of the votes.

The CAA 2023 Worst Roads roving reporter stakeholder and road user interviews are on the CAA Saskatchewan YouTube channel and feature City of Saskatoon’s Todd Grabowski talking about improvements to Circle Drive, Mayor Clive Tolley from Moose Jaw, who provided insight on Moose Jaw’s 4th Avenue Viaduct, Ministry of Highways Assistant Deputy Minister Tom Lees, who addressed changes to Saskatchewan 155 La Loche, which was the #4 CAA Worst Road in 2022 and the #1 in the 2017 CAA Worst Roads, avid cyclist Sarah Bilawski, who shared her safety concerns, and City of Regina’s Kim Onrait on location in Regina’s Whitmore Park – home of two of the 2022 CAA Worst Roads, Grant Drive and Mayfair Crescent.

Weather conditions, age of the roads, heavy traffic and lack of maintenance can cause road deterioration. In cold climates like Saskatchewan, the freeze-thaw cycle plays a key role in creating potholes – a problem that occurs when temperatures regularly go above and below the freezing point. When rain or snow seeps through cracks and openings in the pavement, it freezes and expands, causing the pavement to heave upward. As temperatures rise, the ground underneath the pavement returns to its normal level, leaving a cavity or hole that breaks apart with continued road user traffic over the fractured pavement.

Saskatchewan is a landlocked province and has almost 250,000 km of roads, the highest length of road surface compared to any other province in Canada. These roads, often a lifeline for many residents, are used on a regular basis for business and leisure road travel and when these roads are allowed to deteriorate, road users pay the price.

CAA Saskatchewan is a dedicated safety advocate, and the CAA Worst Roads is an online engagement campaign aimed at drawing attention to our province’s worst, unsafe roads. This year’s top 10 list of worst roads will be distributed to government and business leaders in hopes of sparking conversation and action.

Working towards better roads and safety for all road users is a priority for CAA Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan is a landlocked province and has almost 250,000 km of roads, the highest length of road surface compared to any other province in Canada. These roads, often a lifeline for many residents, are used on a regular basis for business and leisure road travel and when these roads are allowed to deteriorate, road users pay the price.

Highway construction season in full swing

When the daylight hours become longer and warmer weather rolls in, construction equipment rolls out onto Saskatchewan highways. The Government of Saskatchewan is reminding travellers to keep an eye out for highway construction zones across the province. 

“The Ministry of Highways has crews working all over the province making improvements to our transportation network,” said Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “Let’s keep them safe, so everyone gets home safe at night. We have lots of work going on and these slowdowns are only temporary.”

Some major construction projects will continue or be completed to improve safety and traffic flow, including:

  • Continuing passing lanes and widening on Highway 5 from Saskatoon to Highway 2; 
  • Beginning construction of twinning projects near Rowatt and Corinne on Highways 6 and 39 between Regina and Weyburn; and
  • Beginning upgrades on Highway 15 east of Kenaston between Highways 11 and 2.

“Provincial road builders employ close to 30,000 workers, making our industry one of the largest employers in the province, and they are working to build Saskatchewan,” said Shantel Lipp, Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association president. “We want to remind drivers to be patient and drive with caution while our builders go to work on the roads this season. This will help ensure their safety as well as yours.”

“Provincial road builders employ close to 30,000 workers, making our industry one of the largest employers in the province, and they are working to build Saskatchewan. We want to remind drivers to be patient and drive with caution while our builders go to work on the roads this season. This will help ensure their safety as well as yours.”

– Shantel Lipp, SHCA

“Our members are pleased to work with our partners at the Ministry of Highways to make strategic improvements to the transportation network,” said Bev MacLeod, executive director of the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Saskatchewan. “These improvements will make the highway system better and safer for all the people of Saskatchewan.”

There are plans to improve another 1,000 km of highways, for a total of more than 4,600 km of highways improved over the last four years. Improvements this year include:

  • 230 km of repaving;
  • 300 km of medium treatments, like micro surfacing;
  • 340 km of pavement sealing;
  • 115 km of thin membrane surface (TMS) and rural highway
    upgrades; and
  • 35 km of gravel rehabilitation.

Highways will also invest $62.8 million to repair or rebuild 14 bridges and replace more than 100 culverts across the province. Significant bridge projects include replacing the Montreal River Bridge on Highway 2 near Weyakwin and rehabilitating the Highway 6 bridge over Regina’s Ring Road for traffic heading north into the city.

The WCB remains fully funded, which means it remained within the targeted funding percentage range of 105 per cent to 120 per cent in 2022. 

WCB releases 2022 operating results

The Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) remained fully funded within the targeted range in 2022, which means it can cover the future costs of all claims in the system.

“Under The Workers’ Compensation Act, 2013, the WCB is legislated to have sufficient funds in our injury fund to cover current and future claim costs for injured workers. The range protects against unexpected claim activity or fluctuating economic conditions,” said WCB chair Gord Dobrowolsky. “This includes providing benefits and assistance such as earnings loss, physical and vocational rehabilitation, prevention initiatives and other obligations under the Act.”

The WCB remains fully funded, which means it remained within the targeted funding percentage range of 105 per cent to 120 per cent in 2022. The funding policy is currently under review to align with new accounting standards that will be effective for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2023.

The WCB also reported that the 2023 employer premium rates increased to $1.28, a five-cent increase from the 2022 rate of $1.23.

Financial highlights of the WCB’s 2022 results included:

  • Claim costs were $189.4 million in 2022, down from $336.2 million
    in 2021.
  • The WCB’s injury fund was at $436.0 million as of year-end 2022, compared to $549.4 million in 2021.
  • The WCB had premium revenues of $304.0 million in 2022 (up from $259.5 million in 2021) and an investment loss of $132.1 million in 2022 (compared to investment income of $254.1 million in 2021). Investment losses includes realized investment income of $98.0 million less $5.4 million for investment expenses, less a $230.1 million decrease in unrealized investment gains for the year.
  • The WCB covered 400,392 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers in 2022, compared to 392,813 in 2021.

Last year, the WCB advanced the second year of the major corporate initiative, the Business Transformation Program, which is a $150-million, multi-year investment. Through this initiative, the WCB is engaging customers, partners and WCB staff in this multi-year journey to implement the changes that it believes are necessary to meet customers’ expectations now and into the future.

“Our program involves improving customers’ experience and outcomes, updating, replacing or introducing new technologies, and improving our processes and approach to service delivery,” said WCB CEO Phillip Germain. “The ongoing transformation of our organization enables us to further enhance our business functions and better respond to the needs of our customers, who are the workers and employers of Saskatchewan.”

To support the WCB’s vision to eliminate injuries and restore abilities, the organization promotes workplace safety and injury prevention for workers and employers across the province.

“While we’ve seen some improvements in our injury rates over the last decade, there is still more for all of us to do,” said Germain.

Injury data highlights in 2022 included:

  • In 2022, 90 per cent of Saskatchewan workplaces reported zero injuries or fatalities for the third year in a row. Last year, 39 workplace fatalities were reported, up from 31 in 2021.
  • The workplace total injury rate in 2022 decreased to 4.33 injuries per 100 workers, representing a five per cent decrease from the 2021 total injury rate of 4.56 per 100 workers.
  • The 2022 Time Loss injury rate increased to 2.04 injuries per
    100 workers, up 0.49 per cent from the 2021 rate of 2.03 injuries per 100 workers.

Saskatchewan construction investment and housing stats grow

According to numbers released by Statistics Canada in April, Saskatchewan continues to see growth in building construction investment. Year-over-year, investment in building construction saw a 2.7 per cent increase compared to February 2022 (seasonally adjusted), with a total of $356 million invested in building construction in February 2023.

“These numbers are another example of how much people want to invest in Saskatchewan long-term,” said Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison. “These investments result in a strong economy that creates more jobs and more opportunities for the people of this province.”

As well, urban housing starts rose by 76.4 per cent February 2022 and 2023, ranking first among the provinces. In the first two months of 2023, urban housing starts in Saskatchewan increased by 49.7 per cent.

In the first two months of 2023, urban housing stats in Saskatchewan increased by 49.7 per cent.

Canada Infrastructure Bank invests $27.3 million in wastewater treatment facility

Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) and English River First Nation (ERFN), through their economic development arm Des Nedhe Group, closed on a $27.3 million financing agreement in March. The loan will support the construction of a new wastewater treatment facility and infrastructure on ERFN’s Grasswoods Urban Reserve near Saskatoon. 

“The CIB is proud to partner with English River First Nation and Des Nedhe Group to invest in critical infrastructure at the Grasswoods Urban Reserve. Our $27.3 million investment will accelerate construction of a new wastewater treatment facility, providing the community with the certainty they need to plan for future development. As part of our mandate, the CIB is committed to collaborating with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit communities to help deliver inclusive and sustainable infrastructure which will benefit future generations,” said Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank with the announcement on March 15.

Construction on the facility is expected to complete in 2024. 

SHCA 2023 Infrastructure Summit
by SHCA SHCA

SHCA 2023 Infrastructure Summit

First-of-its-kind event for Saskatchewan: Save the date for Nov. 29–30 in Regina

The SHCA 2023 Infrastructure Summit is a two-day conference, taking place Nov. 29–30, 2023, at the Delta Hotel & Convention Center in Regina, held in partnership by the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA), the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Saskatchewan. 

This year’s inaugural event celebrates the significant socio-economic return of transportation investments by the Province of Saskatchewan.

The conference and tradeshow will provide excellent networking opportunities, bringing together leaders and innovators from policymakers, owners, builders and engineers to explore the emerging technologies and partnerships that will enable clean, efficient and accessible transportation systems. The conference will explore advancements in transportation efficiency, accessibility, safety, environment and community across the transportation infrastructure that connects Saskatchewanians and grows Saskatchewan’s economy. 

Highlights of the event include presentations from Pamela Barnum and Mark Nesbitt.

Pamela Barnum

Since 2012, Pamela Barnum has been coaching and consulting on sales and trust-building. In 2015, she began sharing strategies to improve negotiations and increase sales through intentional communication and body language. Prior to this, Barnum spent over 20 years working in the criminal justice system, first as an undercover police officer in the drug enforcement section and later as a prosecuting attorney. 

Mark Nesbitt

Mark Nesbitt is the founder of Nesbitt Training and active member of the aggregate community. Bringing in 30 years as a veteran in the aggregate, mining, trucking and construction industry, Nesbitt has fostered a passion for helping people develop a multitude of personal and professional assets as they strive to grow and improve upon themselves. 

Throughout his career, Nesbitt has been committed to further improving his leadership skills – an important skillset for continual development. By attending leadership seminars and additional alternate training sessions, not only did Nesbitt ensure he developed a well-rounded perspective of leadership practice, he also acknowledged one frequently missed key component to most training and leadership programs – valuable background knowledge and subject matter directly pulled from industry experience.

The Summit will conclude with the 2024 Industry Awards Gala in the evening of
Nov. 30.  

SHCA The Interchange - Default background
by Shantel Lipp Shantel Lipp

GrowingOur Economy

The Saskatchewan Legislative building as seen from the shore of Wascana Lake in Regina, Saskatchewan.
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I am seeing evidence that a conversation very important to our industry is being taken seriously by others who matter in this province.  

Last May, I explained in my President’s Message the report titled From Shovel Ready to Shovel Worthy: The Path to a National Trade Infrastructure Plan for the Next Generation of Economic Growth, which was completed by the Canada West Foundation. 

We know it is a report that matters not just to our industry, but to our province, our entire country and its future. Saskatchewan people continue to hear announcements about private businesses increasing their production to meet the world’s needs. As the report explains, we need the world to have confidence that what Canada produces for export will be moved through the country efficiently and reliably so we, as a trading partner, are competitive in the world. 

For more than a decade, those in the know have watched Canada spend lots of money on projects that are ready for construction. Instead, a better use of that money would be to invest in projects that will provide a return on that spending by improving Canada’s supply chain competitiveness. 

The Western Canada Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) helped initiate the Shovel Worthy report, but it has been endorsed by several associations and organizations concerned with the current investment, the lack of coordination and planning on a long-term strategy and the state of the federal trade corridors fund. 

Many stakeholders were involved in the preparation and release of the report and since then, they have been sharing why this report matters. A coalition of five national organizations – the Business Council of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Construction Association, the Canada West Foundation and the WCR&HCA – are approaching the three orders of government to advocate for a nation-building strategy to invest in Canada’s trade corridors to enable and harness trade-based economic growth. 

We hope their advocacy will persuade the federal government to commit to a national plan for trade corridor infrastructure in budget year 2024, so that Canada can begin to reinvest in the assets that have shaped Canada as country and can make our country even better going forward.

When we invest in the infrastructure Saskatchewan produces to market more efficiently, our province becomes more competitive in the world 

– which means even more trade.

Restoring Canada’s global reliability reputation ranking is critical and will require leveraging a coordinated investment commitment of the municipal, provincial and federal government partnering with the private sector. Goldy Hyder of the Business Council of Canada explained the significance of that during his speech at the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce Business Conference at the end of May. 

The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce represents the Saskatchewan business community and is known as the Voice of Saskatchewan business. The theme of their 2023 conference was “Transportation and Infrastructure: Connecting Saskatchewan to the World.” 

The speakers at the event addressed how we can unlock Saskatchewan’s transportation and infrastructure potential to position our province as a global supplier. 

Hyder spoke about how Canada’s economy depends on reliable physical infrastructure to connect supply chains, enable people and goods to move freely, support millions of jobs, facilitate the energy transition and ensure that the economy continues to grow. I encourage you to read more about his presentation in this issue because he provides some encouragement to those in business to speak up about the challenges they face that are limiting Canada’s growth, which will have an impact on the quality of life future generations enjoy in this country.

Also speaking at this conference was Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill. Just last month, I applauded Cockrill for signing a memorandum of understanding with Manitoba and Alberta to strengthen the economic corridors between our provinces. 

That MOU focuses on four areas of cooperation between the three governments. First, improve efficiency of inter-provincial highway and rail networks. Second, encourage the federal government for infrastructure funding and national supply chain solutions. Third, keep their economies competitive and grow capital investment. And fourth, harmonize regulations to support businesses, industries and shippers. He discussed this MOU during his presentation, which also covered what was contained in the latest budget to develop that transportation infrastructure and how earlier commitments have been fulfilled. 

Our industry knows the economic growth that investing in infrastructure would encourage in this province and the benefits that has for us living here. When we invest in the infrastructure Saskatchewan produces to market more efficiently, our province becomes more competitive in the world – which means even more trade. That grows our economy, so even more revenues can be generated to support areas such as healthcare, education and social programming to make Saskatchewan an even better place to live. 

Knowing that the voice of Saskatchewan business (also known as the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce) values this province’s infrastructure enough to dedicate an event to discussing its importance is highly encouraging. The ideas and information shared by Hyder and Cockrill at this event suggests to me that what our industry is advocating for is being taken seriously by other key players in the province and country. 

Construction of Project Underway
by SHCA SHCA

$26 Million Paving Project Underway in Southeast Saskatchewan

The Government of Saskatchewan is ramping up repaving work this year with 230 kilometres (km) of improvements at key corridors around the province, including a segment of Highway 33. It is part of a plan to improve another 1,000 km of highway this season.

“Our government is in year four of the Growth Plan and we made some commitments to Saskatchewan people, including a pledge to improve 10,000 km in a decade,” Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “Our construction crews are working all over the province making improvements to our transportation network which will improve safety and enhance key transportation corridors.” 

The 38-kilometre repaving project between Fillmore and Stoughton will also include four intersection improvements on Highway 33. Construction began earlier this month and is expected to continue through most of the summer. 

“Maintaining and improving rural highway infrastructure is important for the people who work, live and visit our communities,” Fillmore Reeve Russell Leguee said. “The upgrades to Highway 33 will positively contribute to the safe and reliable movement of agricultural commodities to markets domestically and globally. Ensuring connectivity between communities and providing safe and reliable roads ensures a better quality of life for people living in rural areas.”

The general contractor is Langenburg Redi-Mix of Regina.

Drivers can expect delays with multiple work zones in the area at times. Traffic will be guided by a pilot vehicle. Remember to slow to at least 60 km/hr through the work zone, be extra cautious and obey all signs.

A weekly highway construction update is published on Saskatchewan.ca to provide drivers with the latest details on projects underway to help plan safe and efficient travel.

Transportation trucks in line passing on a highway on a bright blue day. Highway transit transportation with lorry trucks. Transportation And Trucking Industry.
by SHCA SHCA

$50 Million Passing Lanes Project Complete on Highway 16

Major safety improvements on Highway 16 have been completed. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to commemorate completion of the final set of passing lanes which have opened near Saltcoats. 

“The Yellowhead Highway is a major transportation corridor that is used to move people and goods across the province,” Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “With the expanding canola crushing facilities in the area, there are a lot of large trucks traveling through the area and we’re taking steps to move that traffic safely and efficiently. These passing lanes allow drivers to pass slower moving vehicles safely.”

The multi-year passing lanes project extends from Clavet, east of Saskatoon, to the Saskatchewan/Manitoba border, east of Yorkton. This highway safety project was a key investment in Saskatchewan’s $2 billion stimulus program during the global pandemic to help drive economic recovery. In all, 26 passing lanes and multiple intersection upgrades were constructed.

“As representatives of Saskatchewan truck transport, we are pleased to see investments in the highway network that assist the movement of trucks and most importantly ones designed to improve the safety for our professional drivers,” Saskatchewan Trucking Association president Susan Ewart said. “The passing lanes and intersection enhancements will be welcome by our members.”

Passing lanes are typically a minimum of two kilometres and allow drivers to pass slower moving vehicles safely.

SHCA The Interchange - Default background
by Shantel Lipp Shantel Lipp

First-of-Its-Kind Industry Summit Coming Soon

Shantel Lipp

Summer has so many of us spending time outdoors. As we do, we can see other people all around us, which is a big change after years of living through a pandemic, isolating ourselves from one another. 

Everywhere we look, there are simply more people living – and enjoying life – in this province. And that is not just a perception. Statistics Canada recently stated that Saskatchewan’s population increased by 33,101 over the past year, which is a growth of almost three per cent. We now have 1,221,439 people living in our province. We know the provincial government’s Growth Plan from 2020 to 2030 is aiming for our population to grow to 1.4 million people, so we are on our way.

But growing the population of our province is not the only goal of the Saskatchewan government. The Growth Plan has numerous economic goals, and our industry has a role in ensuring a number of them are achieved. 

Saskatchewan is embracing its role of providing the world with the food, fertilizer and fuel it needs. We know that roads and highways connect our landlocked province to the world. The construction our industry undertakes helps other industries achieve the goals set by the province. For example, there was the earthwork necessary ahead of the development of canola crush facilities that will increase Saskatchewan-based processing of canola grown in this province. There is also our industry’s work to improve roads in northern Saskatchewan which supports doubling the size of Saskatchewan’s forestry sector. 

In my role, I am advocating for deeper and more widespread recognition of how our industry contributes to the growth of the province’s economy. That recognition is coming from leaders in other sectors, and I am working with them to broadly deliver their important perspectives on the value of investing in trade and transportation infrastructure to the people and politicians of this province.

While those other industries, such as agriculture and forestry, grow stronger, our industry is also advancing. SHCA is pleased to play a role in that advancement. While I work with leaders those in other sectors, I never lose sight of the relationships I have with members. SHCA is dedicated to representing, advocating and supporting its members and, in that spirit, I am very much looking forward to a first-of-its-kind event SHCA is developing for our industry.

You might have seen posts on social media recently about the first-ever industry summit for Saskatchewan. SHCA is excited to spearhead this event, which will bring together contractors, suppliers, engineers and other professionals to focus on infrastructure and transportation. There will be great industry education sessions, an innovative trade show and awesome networking opportunities spread over two days on Nov. 29 and 30, 2023, at the Delta Hotel & Convention Centre in Regina.

The complete agenda for this key event is still coming together, but I am looking forward to highlighting technological advancements within the industry through these education sessions. You will have opportunities to learn more about the production and processing of materials as well as troubleshooting asphalt plants and more sustainable ways of paving. You can expect to see virtual reality being used to attract young people to our sector and conduct safety training. 

The summit will offer personal and professional development opportunities. I’m excited to learn from Pamela Barnum, who will be one of our keynote speakers. She is a trust strategist and body language expert who developed her skills and insights during her years as an undercover police officer and federal prosecuting attorney. In her presentations, she teaches others how to detect deception and interpret nonverbals in their personal and professional lives. 

As with all our events, please visit saskheavy.ca and check under the Events section of the website, where we will add details about this event in the months to come, including how to register. Right now, if you are interested in participating, I would be happy to hear from you. One of the ways you might participate is by showcasing new technology that can benefit the heavy construction industry, but I am open to hearing about other types of contributions that can be made to this event. You can email me, and I’ll respond to you.

For now, soak in this summer and all this season has to offer because before you know it, November will be here. Until then, I look forward to developing a fantastic event to bring us together once again!

West Coast Port Strikes Puts Saskatchewan’s Landlocked Economy at Risk
by SHCA SHCA

West Coast Port Strikes Puts Saskatchewan’s Landlocked Economy at Risk

The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is raising the alarm regarding the ongoing strike at the West Coast ports and highlighting the severe consequences it poses for the province of Saskatchewan. As a landlocked region, businesses in Saskatchewan already face significant disadvantages, and any disruption in trade through the West Coast ports could have immediate and long-term negative impacts on the provincial economy. In response, the Chamber has communicated its concerns to Minister O’Regan and Minister Alghabra, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution to prevent further harm to the Canadian economy, competitiveness and our reputation as a stable trading nation.
 
Prabha Ramaswamy, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, expressed deep concern over the situation, stating, “The strike at the West Coast ports poses a significant threat to Saskatchewan’s economy. Our province heavily relies on trade through the Vancouver-Fraser Port, with billions of dollars’ worth of commodities passing through annually. The inability to access these ports will force us to resort to high-cost alternatives in the United States, causing losses for Canadian businesses and workers.”
 
Saskatchewan’s landlocked status puts it at a distinct disadvantage in international trade. The province’s economy thrives on exporting various commodities, including agricultural products, minerals and manufactured goods. The West Coast ports, particularly the Vancouver-Fraser Port, serve as vital gateways for these exports, facilitating billions of dollars in trade each year. The Vancouver-Fraser Port alone handles $17 billion worth of Saskatchewan commodities each year, and a total of $65 billion in western Canada’s trade goes through the port of Vancouver.
 
The strike has far-reaching implications beyond Saskatchewan’s borders. With more than 7,000 workers currently on strike, the West Coast ports handle an astonishing $800 million worth of goods per day. This disruption poses a significant threat to Canada’s overall economy, impacting businesses and consumers across the nation. Moreover, the strike jeopardizes Canada’s reputation as a reliable and stable trading nation, potentially leading to long-term consequences for international partnerships and investment.
 
The situation is further compounded by the lack of alternative Canadian ports with the capacity to absorb diverted products. The existing trade infrastructure is operating at maximum capacity, leaving Canadian businesses with no choice but to turn to high-cost port options in the United States. This alternative not only imposes significant financial burdens on businesses but also undermines the benefits that come from handling and shipping products domestically.
 
The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce urgently urges Minister O’Regan and Minister Alghabra to take swift and decisive action to resolve the collective bargaining agreement between the BC Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Canada. Their intervention is critical in ensuring the prompt resumption of operations at the West Coast ports, safeguarding Saskatchewan’s economic stability and preserving Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner.

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