Winnipeg, MB – With the fall skating season now in high gear, the City of Winnipeg has announced the completion of over $3 million in City-owned arena repairs and upgrades as part of the first phase of a multi-year renewal program.
“Recreational arenas bring together neighbourhoods and communities in every region of Manitoba,” said Honourable Glen Simard, Manitoba Minister for Municipal and Northern Relations. “These important investments will allow people of all ages to learn to skate, attend hockey tournaments and create life-long memories with family and friends in an environment of increased safety and accessibility. We share the city of Winnipeg’s goal of creating strong communities that encourage healthy living and team spirit.”
“Growing up as a hockey kid, I know firsthand our rinks are at the heart of our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham. “These are places where our kids build friendships, learn teamwork, and go on to compete in hockey, ringette, figure skating, or speed skating. Investing in our arenas means keeping our communities connected and maybe helping the next Seth Jarvis, Kati Tabin, Heather McLean, or Tyson Langelaar get their start in sport.”
“Investing in these facilities is an investment in our communities, providing Winnipeggers with safe, accessible, and modern spaces to enjoy recreational activities year-round,” said Councillor Vivian Santos, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on Community Services. “These upgrades are the first step in a multi-year renewal plan, ensuring our arenas remain at the heart of community life for generations to come.”
Upgrades in place for the 2024 – 2025 season include:
- Upgraded rink lighting at Sam Southern and Terry Sawchuk arenas
- Roof upgrades and replacements at Century and Charlie Gardiner arenas
- New score clocks at Billy Mosienko, Century, and Terry Sawchuk arenas
- Ice plant upgrades at Billy Mosienko, Charlie Gardiner, and Maginot arenas
- Ice control upgrades at 11 arenas
- Electrical upgrades at 12 arenas
- Updated carbon monoxide sensors at 12 arenas
Future projects scheduled for 2025 include a new accessible washroom at Sam Southern Arena, ice plant upgrades at St. Vital arena, and concrete repairs at six arenas.
In 2022, Council approved $8 million for repair and maintenance at City-owned arenas, as part of the provincially funded Recreation and Library Facility Investment Strategy. Future phases of the Arena Renewal Program will include undertaking building condition assessments and repairs at eligible community centre arenas, and additional investments into City-operated arenas.
For more information, see: winnipeg.ca/arenarenewalprogram.