Winnipeg, MB – The City of Winnipeg announced three park projects today that will improve safety and recreational opportunities for families in the ward of Transcona. The projects include light enhancements at Southland Park (175 Royal Mint Dr.), development of a new playground at Kildonan Meadows Park (1120 Devonshire Dr. West) and renewal of the playground at Kern Park (14 Kern Dr.).
“Recreational infrastructure investments ensure families and visitors have welcoming and safe places to gather, maintain healthy lifestyles, and build a sense of community,” said the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Member of Parliament for Saint-Boniface-Saint-Vital on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities. “Our government is investing in these three park improvement projects here in Winnipeg to enhance quality of life and welcome families back to improved public spaces”.
“The Manitoba government is pleased to administer the federal Canada Community-Building Fund for projects just like the ones here in Transcona,” said Reg Helwer, Manitoba Minister of Labour, Consumer Protection and Government Services. “These enhancements and renovations will allow children, and families to enjoy new recreational opportunities together, and safely, for years to come.”
“Investments in the renewal of community parks and trails in Transcona, which is also known as the Park City, has been an ongoing priority in this ward,” said Shawn Nason, Councillor for Transcona. “It’s important to respond to the changing needs of the community we serve. From the lighting needs in Southland Park to the addition of play equipment at Kildonan Meadows and a playground renewal in Kern Park, these investments today will support many more residents tomorrow and promote a healthier community.”
Light enhancements at Southland Park will include the removal and installation of new light poles and luminaires at the park, along with any required new piles, trenching and cabling. This project is expected to commence in June 2023 and be completed in August 2023.
The addition of a playground at Kildonan Meadows Park will include installation of new play equipment and swings, as well as new safety surfacing, drainage system, granular pathway, and site furniture. This project is expected to commence in September 2022 and be completed in June 2023.
The playground renewal at Kern Park will include the removal of the old play equipment and installation of new equipment, including play structure and swing set, as well as new safety surfacing, pathways, site furniture and fencing. This project is expected to commence in September 2022 and be completed in June 2023.
Council approved funding for the project through the COVID-19 Economic Response and Recovery Plan, which focuses on enhancing active transportation, improving regional park infrastructure, and adding accessible recreational amenities in underserved areas of the city. The combined budget for these projects is anticipated to be approximately $500,000, with total funding from the Canada Community-Building Fund to be $494,000 and the remaining funded by the City of Winnipeg.