b'FROM OUR CHAIRWelcoming the Manitoba Restart ProgramIn early May, WCA called on the provincial government to work with the construction industry to help stimulate the economy as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. Only a short time later, on May 7, Premier Brian Pallister announced $500 million over two years for shovel-ready projects with the Manitoba Restart Program. This is a good start. This program can help our province begin to deal with the infrastructure deficit that currently exists in Manitoba. Our industry is ready and willing to do everything possible to lift the economy up after this pandemic passes.While WCA certainly welcomes this news from the province, we believe that more can be done. A day before Pallisters Manitoba Restart Program announcement, Saskatchewan announced a similar program which sees the provincial government putting $2 billion more towards capital expenditures over the next two years. The $250 million a year will allow our industry to begin work on quality-of-life buildingsmuch needed new schools, new aged-care facilities, new EMS facilities and clean water and wastewater treatmentsbut there is room for improvement.To best stimulate the economy, WCA recommends that the following principles be adopted while this infrastructure funding is beingrolled out:Ensure infrastructure projects are varied in size and scope to make sure many businesses will be able to complete these projects. Ensure projects in major areas are completed, but also ensure regional projects that have been overlooked in the past are considered. Break larger projects into smaller sub-projects so more contractors have bidding opportunities. Roll out this years shovel-ready projects, but also increase new design investment to ensure there are great options for projects in 2021. Let us continue to be vigilant and deliver safe work environments as we manage the risks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, our industry can help restart the Manitoba economy.John Enns, ChairIssue 2 Summer Edition 2020 BUILD MANITOBA 7'