b'FROM OUR DIRECTOR OF STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENTAND ADVOCACYLooking Towards Budget 2025:The Need for a Multi-Year Construction PlanThe construction industry plays a vital role in Manitobasto uncertainty for businesses, inefficiencies in project economy, driving job creation, investment and innovation.delivery and ultimately higher costs for taxpayers.But for the industry to thrive, it requires predictabilityWHY A MULTI-YEAR CONSTRUCTION PLAN MATTERS something that can only be achieved through a clear,A multi-year construction plan would provide much-needed multi-year infrastructure plan. The Winnipeg Constructionpredictability, allowing the construction industry to:Association (WCA) is calling on the provincial government to prioritize transparency and consistency in its 2025 budget, Plan Workforce Requirements: Knowing when andparticularly for vertical infrastructure projects such as schools,where schools will be built enables contractors to recruit, hospitals and long-term care facilities. train and deploy workers effectively. This is especially These projects are more than just buildings; they are quality- critical as the industry faces labour shortages.of-life infrastructure, providing essential spaces where Allocate Resources Efficiently: Contractors can investchildren learn, families receive care and seniors live within equipment, materials and other resources with dignity. Schools, in particular, are a critical component ofconfidence, ensuring projects are completed on time and Manitobas future. With growing populations in the province,on budget.the demand for modern, well-equipped schools is increasing.Support Small Businesses: Smaller construction firmsCOMMITMENT TO PROMISED SCHOOL BUILDS rely on predictability to bid competitively and secure In 2022, the previous provincial government announcedwork. A clear pipeline helps them stay viable and nine new schools to be built under a P3 approach to addresscontribute to the local economy.growing enrollment and alleviate overcrowding. At this time Improve Community Outcomes: Transparent planning there were schools announced for:ensures that schools are built in areas of greatest need, 9-12 SchoolNeepawa addressing overcrowding and ensuring equitable access 9-12 SchoolSte. Anne to education for all Manitobans.K-12 SchoolDSFMBrandon WCA believes that a well-communicated, multi-year plan for K-8 SchoolBrookwoodBrandon vertical construction is not just good for the industryits K-8 SchoolMeadowlandsWest St. Paul essential for the province. Schools are where Manitobas K-8 SchoolSeven Oaks SDWinnipeg future is built, and ensuring they are delivered efficiently, K-8 SchoolDevonshire ParkWinnipeg effectively and on time must be a top priority.K-8 SchoolBridgwaterWaverley WestWinnipeg The Winnipeg Construction Association stands ready to K-8 SchoolPrairie PointeWaverley WestWinnipeg partner with the provincial government to develop and However, with the change in government in 2023, theseimplement a comprehensive multi-year plan for vertical projects remain unconfirmed, leaving contractors andinfrastructure. With collaboration and commitment, we can communities in limbo. ensure Manitobas children have the schools they need, families have access to quality health care and communities A lack of clear timelines and follow-through has are supported with infrastructure that enhances their quality significant consequences: of life. For Students and Families: Overcrowded classroomsand outdated facilities hinder education outcomes. These promised schools are not just desirablethey are urgently needed to ensure equitable access toquality education. For the Construction Industry: A lack of transparency in the governments infrastructure pipeline can leadDarryl Harrison8 BUILD MANITOBAwinnipegconstruction.ca'