bringing additional Indigenous-owned enterprises into the city. “About 60 percent of Thompson’s population is Indigenous,” Mayor Smook notes. “Collaboration is central to how we operate, and we welcome these partnerships.” REBUILDING FOUNDATIONS OF THE NORTH The scale of infrastructure investment underway in Thompson is unprecedented. The city is now in its fifth year of a major water, sewer, and road renewal program, initially announced in 2019 with an estimated cost of $87 million, with final costs expected to exceed that figure. “We are replacing water and sewer lines across multiple neighborhoods and completing over 20 kilometres of road renewal,” Mayor Smook says.“It is the largest infrastructure project outside Winnipeg ever announced by the province.” Construction has impacted areas including Juniper, Deerwood, and Westwood, with one final year of major work planned. “People are tired of construction,” Mayor Smook admits. “But it is absolutely a good news story for Thompson.” STRENGTHENING QUALITY OF LIFE AND PREPAREDNESS Recreation investment is highlighted by a new pool project now valued at $42 million and scheduled to open next August. Originally estimated at $20 million, the project reflects rising construction costs and expanded scope. “The province has stepped up in a big way,” Mayor 180 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
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