The City of Steinbach is continuing to expand its sidewalk network as active transportation projects move higher on the city's list of priorities. Mayor Earl Funk says the city continues to invest in maintaining existing sidewalks while also adding new connections that fit into Steinbach's long-term active transportation strategy. Each year, Steinbach budgets about $50,000 for sidewalk repairs, addressing issues such as uneven concrete, trip hazards, and other maintenance concerns. He notes the annual maintenance funding allows the city to complete repairs at numerous locations throughout Steinbach. New sidewalks planned this year Beyond repairs, the city is also moving ahead with new sidewalk construction projects identified through its Active Transportation Plan. "This year we're going to be continuing the sidewalk on Wyndham Estate Drive and Winston Place," he says. "Those are brand new sidewalks that are going to happen and those are connectivity sidewalks." The projects are designed to improve access between neighbourhoods and support safer travel for residents who choose to walk rather than drive. Active transportation shaping future projects In May 2025, Steinbach City Council unanimously approved a new Active Transportation Plan, a long-term strategy focused on improving walking, cycling, and other forms of non-vehicle travel over the next two decades. The plan identified a number of priorities, including new sidewalks, multi-use pathways, safer crossings, and improved connections throughout the community. Funk says the plan is already influencing budget decisions. "The Active Transportation Plan has put sidewalks actually as a priority in the budget," he says. As a result, residents can expect more sidewalk and pathway projects. "You will be seeing more and more sidewalks and active transportation pathways being created every year." Related Stories: Steinbach adding wider pathway to connect new development to Clearspring Centre Steinbach to begin phased rollout of active transportation projects City updates plans for Steinbach's future following record-setting year Building on recent investments The city's focus on active transportation has already led to other infrastructure projects. Last year, council approved a three-metre-wide asphalt pathway along Park Road West to connect a new residential development with Clearspring Centre. The pathway was designed wider than a traditional sidewalk to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists and reflects the city's broader effort to encourage alternative forms of transportation. With new sidewalks planned for Wyndham Estate Drive and Winston Place, city officials say Steinbach's active transportation network will continue to grow as future projects are added through annual budgets.