Through a partnership with the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM( continues to improve roads through its Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG) program, more than forty-one municipalities and communities will have improved highways. 

The RMs will receive $15.3 million in RIRG funding for phase four of the Saskatchewan government's program to address 56 projects. 

"The RIRG program has been very well received over the past several years," Highways Minister Fred Bradshaw said. "Our government is investing in infrastructure that keeps our rural economies growing and improves safety. This successful program, in partnership with SARM, has improved the safety and quality of our bridges and highways in dozens of rural areas."

RM’s set to receive funding in the Humboldt and Watrous area include:

  • Kelvington - $350,000
  • Ponass Lake - $500,000
  • Bayne - $150,000
  • Pleasantdale - $500,000
  • Three Lakes - $361,492

RIRG provides financial support to RMs with the cost of constructing and upgrading infrastructure in rural areas, which in turn helps local industries such as agriculture, energy and forestry, explained the Government of Saskatchewan in a release. The program grants cover up to 50 percent of each project’s total cost, to a maximum amount of $500,000.

"The financial support for rural roads is important and welcome," SARM President Ray Orb said. "Rural municipalities continue to contribute to local infrastructure supporting Saskatchewan's rural-based industries."

Phase 4 will include 56 road projects with a value totalling $43.2 million. 

The Government states this year’s provincial budget will improve more than 1,100 kilometres of highways, for a total of more than 3,500 kilometres of highways improved over the past three years. Since 2008, the Government has invested around $11.5 billion, stating it has improved more than 18,400 kilometres of Saskatchewan highways.