Winnipeg, MB – Visitors to the St. Vital duck pond will soon enjoy a much cleaner experience.
Today, Mayor Scott Gillingham and Councllor Brian Mayes (St. Vital) formally announced a $3.395-million duck pond revitalization project.
Design work is underway for the project, which will move to construction in 2027.
Work will include dredging the pond, naturalizing the basin, and improving pathway connections to the area.
The project is funded through the 2026 Regional Parks Program, which is supported by the Government of Canada's Build Communities Strong Fund (Community Stream).
“Today’s announcement is wonderful news for St. Vital,” said Ginette Lavack, Member of Parliament for St. Boniface - St. Vital and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services, who joined in today's announcement.
“This local landmark is a beautiful public space where people gather, connect with nature and feel a sense of community," said Lavack. "Parks like this help bring life to our city. The work that will be done here will serve our community for years to come.”
“St. Vital Park is one of Winnipeg’s most cherished green spaces," said Mayor Gillingham. "This investment will revitalize the duck pond and improve the visitor experience. By continuing to invest in our parks, we’re ensuring these important community spaces remain clean and enjoyable for everyone who visits."
“The pond needs renewal, with algae and weed problems now very visible. I am pleased to secure this funding to upgrade the pond," said Councillor Mayes. "I was proud to open the new pavilion during my first term as Councillor, and as I wrap up 15 years representing St. Vital, it is especially gratifying to see this investment move forward. With more than $11 million invested in St. Vital Park over that time, modernizing the pond is a fitting next step."
The shallowness of the existing pond has been a problem for years, resulting in uncontrollable algal growth. Organics need to be removed and the pond deepened to create a more natural and resilient water system. Selective naturalization of the area will help deter geese from congregating in the area, which will also help reduce goose droppings on hard surfaces.
The park is also getting a $1.2 million road paving upgrade this year. This builds on $1.2 million in paving work completed in 2021.
Since 2011, the park has received several major investments with federal, provincial and city funding:
- New soccer field sod and upgraded boat launch upgrades - $750,000
- Pavilion and public art firepit (Ecobouage) - $1.2 million
- Boxcar washroom building - $375,000
- Entrance improvements - $40,000
- Toboggan slide project - $750,000
- Staff building - $2.65 million