PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE’S Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) is set for a major upgrade to meet new provincial and federal water quality standards. The project aims to reduce nutrient
levels (nitrogen and phosphorus) in the facility’s discharge to the Assiniboine River, contributing to Manitoba’s broader effort to combat harmful algae blooms on Lake Winnipeg and improve water quality across the province.

In addition to nutrient reduction, the City is prioritizing other community and environmental benefits, including eliminating odour emissions, boosting local economic activity, and supporting local trades and technical expertise. The upgrade will also address the aging infrastructure of the 25-year-old facility.

The project is funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, with over $61 million from the Manitoba government, more than $60 million from the Government of Canada, and the remaining capital and operating costs covered by the City of Portage la Prairie. The City’s contribution will be financed through its selected operating partner, and negotiations are underway with the Province of Manitoba and local industries to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

The next phase involves inviting three pre-qualified proponents—Plenary/PCL Environmental Infrastructure, Portage Water Solutions (Sacyr/SNC Lavalin/Ledcor), and EPCOR Water Resource Partners—to submit detailed project proposals by mid-to-late 2024. Construction is slated to begin in 2025, with substantial completion targeted for December 31, 2027.