The Saskatoon Circle Drive Southwest Project would ease traffic congestion throughout the city and help keep the local and provincial economy growing by improving its connections to markets across the continent and around the world, said the Prime Minister. It would reduce fuel consumption and expense, improve city air quality, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and shorten commute times.

The project includes construction of a new six-lane bridge across the South Saskatchewan River to complete the final section of the Centre City Ring Road, which would help divert commercial vehicles and others through traffic from the downtown core.

The total eligible project cost is $242.5 million. Under a three-way cost sharing arrangement, the federal and provincial governments would each contribute up to $86 million, with the City of Saskatoon contributing $70.5 million.

This project would stand testament to what can be achieved when governments embrace the true spirit of open federalism and work together to make Canada stronger, safer, and better, the Prime Minister Harper said.

The Saskatoon Circle Drive Southwest Project is part of the Building Canada Plan, the federal government's strategy for renewing the country's national economic infrastructure. The $33-billion undertaking is Canada's largest infrastructure development program in over half a century.

Courtesy: The Prime Minister's Office