WINNIPEG, MB - Following the tabling of the 2013 Capital Budget, Mayor Sam Katz confirmed the Executive Policy Committee’s commitment to enhancing regional parks within the city of Winnipeg.
In total, just over $2 million is to be spent on improvements to St. Vital Park in 2013, including $1 million for the new Duck Pond Pavilion, $300,000 to replace the summer washroom facility and $750,000 to replace the park’s boat launch, which will include riverbank stabilization, an improved dock, and better lighting.
The ‘Wing’ concept has been chosen as the winning design for the new St. Vital Park Duck Pond Pavilion following the public open house which was held in May of 2012. It features a dynamic roof form, suggestive of a bird’s wing in flight. The roof provides two distinct, covered picnic zones, each with a unique view of the pond. The interior space contains built-in seating flanked by a fireplace and washroom area.
“We want the facilities in our regional parks to be as welcoming and beautiful as the natural surroundings,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “The new Duck Pond Pavilion will attract visitors in both summer and winter. This is just one of the significant capital improvements that will take place within our regional parks this year.”
“Regional parks are the backbone of our recreation system,” said Deputy Mayor Russ Wyatt, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Finance. “This is a great first step to improving the assets in our regional parks.”
"I first came here when I was eight years old and now I am bringing my eight year old son here," said Councillor Brian Mayes. "I am pleased that we are upgrading facilities at St. Vital Park to properly reflect the value that residents continue to place upon this community green space."
Capital Budget funds to be spent on City of Winnipeg regional parks in 2013, including a combination of new and old money, include:
- Kildonan Park: Over $2.7 million for upgrades to the Peguis Pavilion and exterior renovations to the pond and Lord Selkirk Creek.
- Whittier Park: $400,000 for the construction of a storage building for St. Boniface Baseball, Festival du Voyageur and park use.
- Kilcona and Harbourview Parks: A total of $200,000 to fund a new strategic master plan for these parks. Public consultations will begin in the spring of 2013.
- Assiniboine Park: A total capital grant of $12.6 million, including accelerated funding in 2013, as well as a $17 million loan guarantee for the Journey to Churchill project.
The 2013 Budget represents the first step in a long-term plan to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens. Investing in citizens’ priorities ensures that Winnipeg continues to be a great place to live, work and play, now and in the future.
For more information on the 2013 Budget, please visit: winnipeg.ca/2013budget.