The construction crew replacing the crossing bands on Main Street in Steinbach was surprised with a free BBQ lunch on Thursday.

Loewen Body Shop receptionist Brooke Goodman says the crew had been working in front of their business all week. Rather than being frustrated by the slight disruption, she says the shop staff was inspired by the workers’ joyful attitudes.

“They have been doing an excellent job working extremely hard and always smiling," observes Goodman, "so it feels like it’s flying by.”

Goodman says her bosses, Josh and Mark Loewen, were so impressed by the crew that they felt they should express their appreciation.

“We bought them donuts earlier this week," tells Goodman, "and they were so grateful and cheerful that we decided to buy them some hotdogs as a thank you for what they’ve been doing.”

One worker, Kade Cote, says he is used to sitting in the shade and eating lunch quietly with his crew. This sudden and unexpected generosity from the nearby business blew him away.

“This has actually never happened before, this is amazing.”

Cote confirms that the work along Main Street is on schedule and expects it will be completed sometime late next week.

The crossing band construction will likely be finished sometime late next week.