Dear Editor
The Regina bypass project, the largest Public?Private Partnership (P3) project in Saskatchewan's history, will make an enormous difference to the safety of the residents in and around White City, as well as commuters who work in the area and travellers to Regina. The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce applauds the provincial and federal government on moving ahead with this vital P3 project.
The announcement underlines the benefits the P3 model offers towards addressing infrastructure needs within the province. The fact the federal government, through P3 Canada, is contributing significant dollars, is a positive move for Saskatchewan.
The P3 model has great potential for Saskatchewan businesses, and the Chamber feels they will change the landscape of the Saskatchewan construction industry, while also helping to reduce infrastructure deficits. Strategically chosen projects such as this one show the P3 model has the potential to serve the overall public interest, support the local economy and minimize risk. P3s are not appropriate for every project, but they can often be good for the public and business community when used for the right projects. The SCC believes this is one such project.
The bypass is a definite win for the safety of travellers in the White City/Emerald Park area, which has in recent years seen significant expansion of its business base. Workplace safety, both on site and travelling to and from work, is of great concern. Highway projects such as this one will help ensure more workers get home safely every night.
The Saskatchewan Chamber, along with the Saskatchewan Construction Association and the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association, plans to host the second annual Saskatchewan P3 Summit in Regina Sept. 9. The event will feature a line up of leading P3 experts who will discuss the opportunities relating to P3 partnerships.
The federal, provincial and all surrounding municipal governments should be applauded for the successful launch of this significant project.
Steve McLellan, CEO
Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce
