Winnipeg's Winter Wonderland: Community Centre Gears Up with New Ice-Making Equipment
The City of Winnipeg is doubling down on its commitment to community recreation, with a recent announcement earmarking funding to revitalize outdoor rinks at a beloved local hub. At a weekend press event, Coun. Brian Mayes revealed plans to inject $31,000 from the St. Vital ward’s communities fund into the Windsor Community Centre, specifically for the acquisition of a new tractor equipped with a bucket and snow pusher. This contribution complements the centre's efforts, which have raised additional funds to cover the $66,000 cost of the much-needed ice-making equipment.
Reflecting on past investments, Mayes emphasized the city's ongoing support for the Windsor Community Centre, recalling previous grants directed towards infrastructure improvements. "In 2019, we announced $80,000 towards the north rink boards, and in 2022, I was here with Mayor Bowman to announce $100,000 for the south rink boards. But we need ice to use these rinks," he remarked in a press release, highlighting the importance of this latest initiative in enabling community engagement.
The outdoor rinks at the Windsor Community Centre serve as vital spaces for hockey enthusiasts and families alike. However, securing funding for the project was no small feat, as Mayes revealed that it took several months for approvals to materialize, with groundbreaking commencing earlier this year. Looking ahead, the centre's board members are already eyeing further enhancements, with plans to upgrade the garage to accommodate the newly acquired machinery.
Board president Adria Mielke expressed optimism about the future, outlining aspirations for securing additional grants to support the centre's long-term development. "That's our long-term hope for that. Whether or not that happens, we'll be looking for grants for that as well," Mielke remarked, underscoring the community's determination to create enduring recreational spaces for residents to enjoy.
As Winnipeg prepares to embrace the winter chill, the investment in the Windsor Community Centre's outdoor rinks signals a commitment to fostering active lifestyles and strengthening community bonds amidst the frosty landscape.
As the Windsor Community Centre gears up for the winter season with upgraded outdoor rinks, it stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and municipal support. With new ice-making equipment in tow and plans for further improvements on the horizon, residents can look forward to enjoying enhanced recreational opportunities in the heart of Winnipeg. As the snow begins to fall and the skates hit the ice, the Windsor Community Centre remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive community space for all to enjoy, year-round.