Winnipeg, MB – Winnipeg's long-term vision for Downtown is moving closer to reality.
In the year and a half since Council approved CentrePlan 2050 as the 25-year blueprint for how Downtown should grow and change, hard work, creativity, and collaboration have taken the plan from concept to concrete.
Council’s approval of the plan came with direction to report back on progress of specific activities and options for creating a dedicated long-term funding source for implementation.
“CentrePlan 2050 gives us the roadmap to build a Downtown and Exchange District that can stand alongside any desirable city in Canada — vibrant, welcoming, and full of life,” said Councillor Evan Duncan, Chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development. “We’ve approved the vision. Now it’s time to commit to the funding and the work required to attract new residents, support local businesses, and create a downtown that is active, safe, and thriving year-round.”
A report published today recommends Council refer a four-year, $8-million investment in Downtown to the 2027 budget process. The funding would directly support implementation of CentrePlan 2050.
"We’ve made great progress on how Winnipeggers see and interact with Downtown,” said Hazel Borys, Director of Planning, Property, and Development. “From implementing permitting changes to enable faster, easier development to opening Portage & Main to pedestrians, we are demonstrating our commitment to making the area safer, more inhabitable, more beautiful, and generally a place both Winnipeggers and visitors want to be.”
The report also recommends delegating authority to the CAO to enter into grant agreements for funding from external sources to help ensure efficiency and expedience.
Standing Policy Committee on Property and Development will consider the recommendations at its March 5 meeting.
Learn more at winnipeg.ca/centreplan2050