Winnipeg, MB – South Winnipeg is one step closer to a state-of-the-art community hub.
The Government of Canada, Province of Manitoba, and City of Winnipeg officially broke ground today on the much-anticipated South Winnipeg Recreation Campus.
The multi-use, multi-generational facility is being built in phases. Phase 1 is being built using $127.5 million in tri-level funding. It will feature a recreation centre that includes space for sports, recreation, fitness, and special events as well as a wing for childcare.
"Our government is extremely proud to break ground on a new recreation hub for South Winnipeg that will provide a space for people to come together to learn, play, train, and build a stronger community,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “We know spaces like these are vital to growing communities and will be used by families for generations to come.”
The City of Winnipeg is investing $49.2 million in capital funding towards Phase 1 construction, which includes recreation and child care spaces. This is complemented by $31.7 million from the Government of Canada, and $30.66 million from the Province of Manitoba.
Phase 1 also includes an addition to Pembina Trails Collegiate (50 Frontier Rd.) that supports vocational programs. The Province of Manitoba has provided $16.5 million in capital funding for this vocational wing, bringing their total funding on the project to $47.16 million.
“South Winnipeg is one of the fastest-growing areas in our province, and as more young families choose to build their lives here, the need for child care continues to grow alongside it. Families in south Winnipeg deserve access to high quality, affordable child care close to home, and this investment will help make that a reality for 176 children and their families,” said Tracy Schmidt, Manitoba Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning. “With our additional funding in the South Winnipeg Recreational Centre, we are helping create spaces where families need them most. Strengthening access to high-quality, affordable child care helps families participate fully in Manitoba’s workforce while giving their children the strong start they deserve.”
“The South Winnipeg Recreation Campus represents the future of community infrastructure: modern, inclusive, and multi-generational.” said Hon. Terry Duguid. “From child care and vocational learning to fitness, recreation, and gathering spaces, this campus will help families from every background thrive and ensure southwest Winnipeg continues to be one of the best places in Canada to live, raise a family, and build community.”
“As our city continues to grow, so do the demands for recreation and community spaces,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “Waverley West has been one of the fastest-growing areas in our city and the South Winnipeg Recreation Campus is exactly the kind of infrastructure investment we need to support families, strengthen neighbourhoods, and build healthy communities. This project would not be possible without strong partnerships between all levels of government and the continued advocacy of community leaders who have worked for years to bring this vision to life.”
It is expected the campus will open in early 2028, bringing with it a variety of amenities including:
- Gymnasiums
- Multipurpose rooms
- Indoor walking/running track
- Fitness area
- Cafe
- Serving kitchen
- Child care centre
- Outdoor spray pad
“The South Winnipeg Recreation Campus is Winnipeg’s first regional campus anticipated to serve upwards of 120,000 residents.” said Councillor Janice Lukes (Waverley West). “This open field, shaped through vision, planning, and partnerships, will become a vibrant community hub and gathering place for generations to come.”
“Community spaces are about more than recreation. They are where people gather, connect, learn, and build a sense of belonging,” said Councillor Vivian Santos, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Community Services. “The South Winnipeg Recreation Campus represents a major investment in the future of Winnipeg families, bringing together recreation, child care, education, wellness, and community services all in one location. As Chair of Community Services, I am proud to see all three levels of government working together to deliver a truly multi-generational campus that will serve residents for decades to come.”
Preliminary design work on Phase 2 of the campus will begin this year with a focus on a planned aquatic facility. Public engagement on the design is slated for early 2027. Phase 2 construction remains unfunded at this time.