Winnipeg, MB – Today, Winakwa Community Centre (980 Winakwa Rd.) hosted the Government of Canada, Province of Manitoba, City of Winnipeg, and Trails Manitoba for a ribbon cutting to unveil the first phase of their pathways project.
Phase one of the project includes a new asphalt pathway connecting the Winakwa Community Centre, an existing playground, and outdoor rink area directly to Windsor Park Collegiate. The asphalt pathway then connects to a new granular pathway that guides users towards an outdoor classroom space, College Beliveau, an existing community garden, and to the tennis courts at Windsor Park Collegiate. Another granular pathway also runs towards a baseball diamond.
The project also includes newly planted trees along the pathway supplied by Trees Canada through a donation by CN Rail.
“With the first phase of upgrades at Winakwa Community Centre now complete, the community has a renewed space for recreation, learning, and connection,” said Ginette Lavack, Government of Canada, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services. “These improvements will help residents of all ages enjoy the outdoors and stay active throughout the year.”
“Projects like this show what’s possible when neighbours work towards a vision and partners in government invest in community infrastructure,” said Renée Cable, Province of Manitoba, Minister of Advanced Education and Training. “This new pathway will truly connect our diverse community. We’re proud to support projects that strengthen neighbourhoods, promote active living, and help communities grow.”
“This project is a great example of what can happen when community members come together with a shared vision,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “Thanks to the dedication of Winakwa Community Centre and their project committee, Windsor Park now has another great space that brings people together and strengthens community connections..”
“The pathways project is all about connecting community,” said Councillor Matt Allard, St. Boniface. “While these new pathways make a real physical connection between all of these community spaces, they also make an important symbolic link between them as well. I am proud of the committee’s work in championing this project and am excited to see progress on future phases.”
“Winakwa Community Centre is a welcoming place where everyone feels seen, valued, and inspired to belong,” said Crystal Poirier, President, Winakwa Community Centre. “The Path We Walk Together offers a beautiful outdoor space for our community to share, connect, and enjoy special moments together. We hope it becomes a place to slow down, reconnect with the land, and appreciate all that nature has to offer.”
“Trails Manitoba is proud to support the Winakwa Community Centre in creating a space that encourages people to get outside and connect," said Tim Coffin, Executive Director, Trails Manitoba. "This new pathway will give residents of all ages a safe and accessible place to walk, recreate, and gather — helping to strengthen community ties and promote active living year-round."
The first phase of the project was budgeted for $220,000. The project received $175,000 from the Canada Community-Building Fund, $15,000 through a Trails Manitoba grant, and $30,000 raised by Winakwa Community Centre.
In future phases of the project, the pathways will continue further and complete a looped trail connecting each of the properties and community amenities.