SARM seeks more funds to maintain essential rural infrastructure
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) has issued an urgent call for more funding to repair and maintain rural roads and bridges, which are critical for local communities and the province's economy.
These infrastructure pieces support essential industries like agriculture, oil and gas, mining, and other natural resource sectors. Without additional funds, Saskatchewan’s rural infrastructure will continue to decline, with significant economic and social consequences.
Rural municipalities (RMs) are responsible for maintaining Canada’s largest road network, spanning 164,000 kilometres. These roads connect rural residents to urban centres, transport vital supplies, and facilitate the export of goods.
In addition, RMs manage 1,280 bridges, 60% of which have surpassed their expected lifespan and urgently need replacement to avoid safety hazards and disruptions in transportation.
The Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG) program, funded by the Ministry of Highways and administered by SARM, offers financial support to RMs for rural road construction and bridge maintenance.
However, funding for the program has decreased over the years, from $25 million between 2009 and 2014, to just $15 million from 2015 to 2023. Although a modest increase to $17.4 million was seen in 2024-2025, SARM argues that this falls short of addressing the escalating infrastructure needs.
Bill Huber, acting President of SARM, stressed that every RM is dealing with a growing list of roads and bridges that require urgent attention.
Rising construction costs have worsened the situation, with bridge-building costs increasing by 36% between 2010 and 2020, and an additional 25% from 2020 to 2022.
Shantel Lipp, President of the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association, echoed these concerns, noting that the industry faces growing expenses in fuel, materials, and labour.
She emphasised the need for long-term infrastructure funding that keeps pace with inflation to avoid project delays and ensure the province's road network remains functional and safe.
As Saskatchewan heads toward the 2024 provincial election, SARM has identified infrastructure, health care, policing, crime, and agriculture as key priorities for rural communities.