As road construction continues in Steinbach, some businesses near the Loewen Boulevard and Brandt Street intersection are seeing some relief, with access improving thanks to recent traffic flow changes. Businesses on the east side are now dealing with a change in access.
The intersection renewal project, which began last year, has significantly disrupted vehicle access to several businesses in the area. While many residents have grown accustomed to detours and closed routes, the City of Steinbach confirmed in June that the entire project is expected to be completed by fall 2025.
Tessa Masi, Executive Director of the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce, said the construction has been tough on some local businesses — particularly those that are harder to reach during full closures and detours.
“There’s definitely a different traffic flow happening now,” Masi said. “Some of the businesses definitely have been very impacted just from the restriction of traffic flow.”
Construction update brings new access points
As of last Thursday, both southbound and northbound traffic on Highway 12 is being rerouted to the southbound lanes between Elmdale Street and just north of Loewen Boulevard. The northbound lanes in this area, along with a portion of Loewen Boulevard east of Highway 12, are currently closed.
However, the City says access to businesses along the east side of Highway 12 is being maintained through a delineated drive aisle within the parking lot area. Additionally, the intersection at Highway 12 and Millwork Drive has now returned to normal traffic flow.
Masi said some of the newly paved roads are already making a noticeable difference for drivers and businesses.
Call to support affected businesses
While road improvements are necessary, Masi emphasized the importance of community support during the disruptions.
“We all have our routine and know which roads are easy to access,” she said. “But I’d encourage people to pay attention to some of the businesses that maybe have had a tougher time or are more restricted.”
She suggests that even small efforts — like choosing to shop or eat at an affected business — can go a long way in helping local shops recover.
“If there’s a way we can make an effort to visit them and head out that way, then I think that would be really great,” said Masi.
