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With Hudson Bay taking longer to freeze, an increasing number of polar bears have been straying a little too close to Churchill, Man. Construction improvements for a holding compound will help ensure the bears keep away from people.

Provincial funding is enabling strengthened highway infrastructure and improved polar bear protection in Manitoba.

Next year, a record $366 million will be spent on major highway and bridge projects, as part of the Highway Renewal Plan that began in 2007. (This number represents approximately four times what was spent to build highways in the 1990s.)

More than 1000 km (621 mi) of roadway will see construction with the cost-shared support of the federal government, and over $150 million will be invested in 28 bridges. (The tendering schedule is currently online.)

In related news, $105,000 in provincial funding will be going to structural upgrades for Churchill's polar bear facility.

Located about 8 km (5 mi) east of the northern coastal town, this old army warehouse serves as a holding compound for bears wandering a little too close to Churchill. Used for almost 30 years, the facility keeps the 670-kg (1477-lb) animals isolated from people until a safe 'deportation' can be provided. This season, almost 60 bears have been captured and held; they are staying in the area longer than usual because the water on Hudson Bay has not frozen over as early as it historically does.

The Manitoba government has also pledged $31 million for the development of international polar bear conservation at Winnipeg's Assiniboine Park Zoo.

More than 1000 km (621 mi) of Manitoba's highways will see construction in 2010, thanks to government funding.