Reimagining Graham Avenue

CentrePlan 2050 is our vision for a lively, walkable Downtown. Reimagining Graham Avenue is an action from CentrePlan.

Over 2023 and 2024, Winnipeggers shared ideas for the future of Graham Avenue. They want a street that feels welcoming – a place to meet friends, enjoy a patio, attend a market, or simply relax.

To start making the vision real, Council funded a placemaking pilot. The pilot launched in June of 2025 and will continue into 2026. If successful, permanent changes could begin in future years.

 

What’s happening

Graham Avenue looks different today. Between Carlton Street and Garry Street, there’s a pedestrian-first zone with features like:

  • Street murals supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies Asphalt Art Initiative and created by Cool Streets Winnipeg
  • Artistic lighting by the Downtown Winnipeg Business Improvement Zone and Lights Unlimited
  • Street furniture designed by N/A Architecture and built by Tec-Voc High School
  • Mid-block access ramps designed and built by the Met Exchange School
  • Circular benches, trees, and decorative boulders donated by Ron Paul Garden Centre
  • Art installations created by Storefront Manitoba’s Cool Gardens design competition
  • Planters, picnic tables, and ping pong tables from the Downtown Winnipeg Business Improvement Zone
  • Festival space for events like the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) Championship Weekend

Protected bike lanes now run between Garry Street and Main Street. Vaughan Street has a two-way bike lane. These changes make it easier to walk, cycle, and enjoy the street.

For winter, look for holiday trees, new lighting, and seasonal activities. Visit ImagineGraham.com for event details.

 

Getting around

  • Pedestrians: New seating, art, and gathering spaces between Carlton Street and Garry Street
  • Cyclists: Graham Avenue is a bike route with protected lanes between Garry Street and Main Street. Vaughan Street also has a two-way bike lane.
  • Transit: Buses no longer run on most of Graham Avenue. Service continues only between Garry Street and Main Street.
  • Drivers: Vehicle access remains between Vaughan Street and Carlton Street. Speed limits are now 30 km/h. Graham Avenue is no longer a truck route.
  • Parking: Street parking remains where it existed before. Former bus-only segments are now used for pedestrian space.

 

Future plans

The pilot project will help us learn what works and what needs improvement. Feedback from residents and businesses will guide next steps. Permanent changes, such as pavement, planting trees, and changing curbs, will need more funding.

 

Questions?

Contact 311 for more information or to share feedback.

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