Thomas Edison once said, “The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.”
As we head into the 2026-27 provincial budget cycle, SHCA is once again advocating for multi-year funding commitments and a long-term, rolling infrastructure plan to help our industry grow and meet the demands of the provincial economy.
Short-term funding windows create boom-and-bust cycles in the industry and impede planning for road building. Without predictable and reliable funding structures in place, our members cannot confidently invest in equipment, training and workforce development.
Predictable funding enables the industry to make those vital investments and create conditions for real construction cycles designed for readiness. As well, the government benefits from long-term funding due to its reliability, creating an environment to lower costs over time.
Add to the mix a system that creates a long-term rolling plan for infrastructure projects in the province, and you have a winning formula that keeps pace with economic growth.
Without a long-term plan, construction projects invariably fall into the trap of project delays, cost overruns and low workforce participation. Long-term planning for infrastructure projects allows the industry to build stable capacity and deliver better outcomes for both industry and government.
Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to meet with the Honourable Kim Gartner, the Minister of Highways, and the Honourable Sean Wilson, Minister Responsible for SaskBuilds and Procurement, in one-on-one discussions to reiterate what our industry needs and how it can work with government to get there.
At the end of January, SHCA was also invited by the Ministry of Highways to attend the Government of Saskatchewan announcement that $78 million worth of construction work will go towards bridge projects. The government noted that the bridge projects are scheduled during other major events throughout the province, such as spring seeding or fall harvest, to facilitate traffic. We welcome the announcement that will help improve viable trade corridors across the province.
SHCA looks forward to more good news announcements for our industry in 2026!
Engagement and event update
The Canadian Technical Asphalt Association is hosting a Western Canadian Pavement Workshop in Edmonton, Alta., from Feb. 17 to 18. This event offers hands-on training, cutting-edge technical sessions and real-world insights from experts across Canada.
Don’t forget that Valentines Day is coming up, and nothing says love more than giving your significant other something from the “Built On Grit” shop.
