Winnipeg, MB – Winnipeggers have a new, welcoming outdoor space to shoot some hoops and enjoy some fun.
Today, the Government of Canada, City of Winnipeg, Buckets & Borders, and other project partners celebrated the grand opening of major park improvements at Northwood Community Centre (1415 Burrows Ave.). The improvements include:
- All-new basketball court with sport court surfacing
- Playground equipment
- New seating areas throughout the park and around the wading pool
- Improved drainage
- Asphalt pathways and other park features
“The new basketball court and playground at Northwood Community Centre will give kids and families a safe, accessible space to gather, play, and stay active for years to come,” said the Honourable Kevin Lamoureux, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons. “Projects like this help strengthen our neighbourhoods and make a real difference in the lives of Winnipeggers.”
The budget for the project was approximately $604,000, with $149,000 funded through the Canada Community-Building Fund, $225,000 from the Land Dedication Reserve Fund, and $230,000 from the Province’s Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund.
“I’m thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of the renewed playground and new basketball court at Northwood Community Centre, delivering on a promise I made in 2018, said Councillor Vivian Santos, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Community Services. “With support from all three levels of government, this project shows what we can achieve when we work together to invest in vibrant, inclusive spaces. The Buckets & Borders mural, created with École Sisler High School, the Winnipeg Sea Bears, and TelPay, is a beautiful example of how art and sport can uplift and inspire our community.”
Buckets & Borders, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving communities and bringing people together through basketball, teamed up with sponsors Winnipeg Sea Bears and TelPay to bring the basketball court to life. Their contribution includes:
- A custom mural painted on the court
- New backboards and rims
- Regulation game lines installed on top of the mural
"Buckets & Borders is honoured to return to Winnipeg for its third major project in partnership with the Winnipeg Sea Bears and TelPay,” said Justin Lee, CEO & Co-founder of Buckets & Borders. “Winnipeg has become one of our favourite cities and because of long standing partnerships like these, we get to continue to grow the game of basketball in a city that truly loves the game."
The mural artwork was done in collaboration with the students and alumni of Sisler High School and local artist Jonato Dalayoan. The court features the word “welcome” at centre court in Ojibwe (Aaniin), Cree (Tânsi), Dakota (Iyuskin), and Michif (Peehtikway) to honour the land the court is located on.
“Recreation amenities like this basketball court foster both social connection and physical development,” said Lora Meseman, Executive Director of the General Council of Winnipeg Community Centres. “This new court enhances the community centre’s ability to bring people together, all thanks to Councillor Santos’ vision and support. It’s an investment in youth, in community pride, and in creating a safe, active space for all to enjoy.”
“This initiative is exciting for Northwood Community Center,” said Marsha Missyabit, Winnipeg School Division’s Kookum. “This gathering place for children and youth will provide them with opportunities to develop skills, personal and social. The community will grow in areas of developing their pride, teamwork, playing fair, and healthy attitudes. When we think of living a good life- Mino Bimaadisiwin, we learn how to balance our Body, Mind, and Spirit. Physical activity develops healthy bodies, strengthens our minds, and provides the outlet to feel good. This playground and basketball court will bring the community together. To honor this development we show our gratitude, we say Miigwech. Thank you to the City of Winnipeg for providing the funding to make this dream, a reality.”