Residents welcome to hoop it up at newly opened Bridgwater Park basketball court

Winnipeg, MB – Today, the Government of Canada, Province of Manitoba, and City of Winnipeg celebrated a newly opened outdoor basketball court at Bridgwater Park (200 North Town Road).

The new basketball court, made from asphalt and acrylic sport court surfacing, also features new chain link fencing, two sets of built-in street hockey nets, asphalt pathway, newly laid sod, and a seating area with an accessible picnic table.

"Investing in community spaces like Bridgwater Park's new basketball court is a key part of our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Canadians,” said Terry Duguid, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “This project not only promotes active living but also strengthens community bonds by providing a space where Winnipeggers of all ages can come together for generations to come.”

"Bridgwater, along with the rest of the Waverley community, has grown quickly these past few years," said MLA David Pankratz. "The government of Manitoba is proud to be a partner with the city as we work together to build healthier and safer communities."

“The popularity of basketball remains strong and continues to grow here in Winnipeg,” said Councillor Janice Lukes, Waverley West. “Just look at the popularity of the Sea Bears, who are doing amazing work promoting the game of basketball. It’s a thriving and accessible sport that welcomes all ages and skill levels. This court is also unique in that it’s the first-of-its-kind in Winnipeg to also have two hockey nets incorporated into it to allow floor hockey to be played. Adding this court, with its floor hockey feature in the heart of Bridgwater will be a very welcome addition to a community that continues to grow.”

“South Winnipeg Community Centre is pleased to be working with all levels of government to identify and support funding efforts to increase recreational activities in our community’, said Masroor Khan, President of the Board of Directors, South Winnipeg Community Centre.

The budget for all project costs was $210,000, funded through the federal Canada Community-Building Fund.

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.