The Max Bell Centre will receive important upgrades to be more environemntally sound thanks to a significant investment by the federal and provincial governments.
Canada and Manitoba support green infrastructure and upgrades to UM and other communities
The governments of Canada and Manitoba continue to invest in local infrastructure during this unprecedented time to meet the needs of communities, enhance quality of life, and support economic recovery from COVID-19.
Today, the Honourable Jim Carr, Minister and Special Representative for the Prairies, on behalf of the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, the Honourable Reg Helwer, Minister of Central Services and the Honourable Sarah Guillemard, Minister of Conservation and Climate announced funding for nine projects across Manitoba to support green infrastructure and upgrade community, culture, and recreation facilities. The projects will improve access to water infrastructure in several municipalities, create an urban tree canopy in Selkirk, and build or renovate key facilities in different locations to respond to community needs and make the buildings more energy efficient.
“Whether we invest in cultural and recreational facilities or improving urban spaces through added trees, our end goal is the same: build healthy, vibrant, and resilient communities where Canadians can grow and thrive. The $21 million in federal funding announced today is just one step our government is taking to help support Manitobans as they recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Minister Carr said.
The Government of Canada is investing more than $21 million in these projects through the Community, Culture, and Recreation Infrastructure Stream and the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. For projects requiring consultations with Indigenous groups, federal funding is conditional on consultation requirements being met. The Government of Manitoba is investing over $4.8 million and other funding partners are contributing over $26.9 million combined.
“Energy efficiency and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions are a major plank of our government’s Made in Manitoba Climate and Green Plan, and these projects will go a long way toward achieving environmental sustainability for our province. Enhanced outdoor spaces have also become a focus for the province as more Manitobans turn to parks and outdoor recreation during the pandemic, so I am proud that we can join in these exciting initiatives to improve spaces and facilities for community and cultural gatherings,” says the Honourable Sarah Guillemard, Minister of Conservation and Climate.
Energy Upgrades on University of Manitoba’s Fort Garry Campus
This project will upgrade University of Manitoba’s Central Energy Plant and the Max Bell Centre building on its Fort Garry Campus in Winnipeg. The improvements will benefit all 41 major buildings on UM’s campus by improving their energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“We thank the governments of Canada and Manitoba for their support of UM’s sustainability goals. This investment in upgrades to our Central Energy Plant and Max Bell Centre support the efficiency and resiliency of our infrastructure, and deliver social and environmental benefits to our community,” says Michael Benarroch, President and Vice-Chancellor at UM.
Community Centre in Oakville
A new community centre in Oakville will replace the existing community hall that is nearing the end of its lifespan. The new 10,500 square-foot community centre will serve as a hub in the community and centralize community, cultural, and sporting venues in one location.
Multi-use Arbour and Powwow Grounds on Brokenhead Reserve
A new multi-use arbour and powwow grounds on Brokenhead Reserve will provide space for a multitude of activities, including cultural teachings and workshops, traditional ceremonies as well as community celebrations and events for the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation and other First Nations in proximity.
Quick facts
- Through the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan, the Government of Canada is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
- Overall, $945 million of this funding has helped support over 229 infrastructure projects across Manitoba.