Preparations for the 2009 construction season in Saskatchewan are well underway.

     The Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure has tendered the first phase of the season's projects, worth more than $168 million.

     Highway 32 is included in those tenders, with a major grade and pave project planned between Shackleton and Prelate, along with resurfacing from Junction Highway 1 to Success.

     Resurfacing projects on the TransCanada Highway in the Beverly and Piapot areas are also included, as well as three bridge replacement projects west of Chaplin.

     Province-wide, upgrades are planned for 484 kilometres of highway in this first phase of projects.