It’s that time of year again! Nope, I’m not going on about cross country skiing (this time). Today is all about the City’s budget. There’s been a lot of talk about what’s on the table, and what might be coming off. Our role at the Downtown BIZ when it comes to the City’s budget is to make sure Mayor and Council know which investments are critical for our downtown neighbourhood and your business to thrive. I’ll be speaking in delegation to the Executive Policy Committee today, where I’ll highlight some crucial spending and policy decisions we need to keep moving our downtown forward.

The redevelopment of Graham Avenue is top of mind for many as the buses will come off that route this summer. As part of CentrePlan 2050 – the city’s long-term plan for downtown development and investment – Graham Ave. has the potential to be a vibrant destination hub for people to gather, connect and celebrate. However, current funds earmarked for this project are insufficient to support the activities and programming necessary to ensure this public space will be safe and welcoming.

I’ll also be speaking about improving safety downtown and the need to make sure key projects underway are supported so they can be successful.

WATCH

I am excited to welcome Vera Fourre as our new Director of Community Relations. As part of this brand-new role at the BIZ, Vera will lead the implementation of our Indigenous Relations Strategy while also building key connections with our diverse downtown community.

Vera worked for nearly 20 years at APTN, the last 10 years as its Director of Community Relations. She is a member of the Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation, and her experience and understanding of traditional culture, ceremonies, and language, along with her desire to build a strong community for all people, make her a great fit for this role. She is a highly respected member of the community, and I look forward to having her guide our continued efforts to advance reconciliation and foster an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming environment, not just at the BIZ but throughout downtown.

Please join us in giving Vera a warm welcome to the team!

Join us this Friday, January 24, as we celebrate the official unveiling and opening ceremony of “Returning to Our Roots”, a new Indigenous mural at RBC Convention Centre.

Created by local Métis artist Justine Proulx, "Returning to Our Roots" is a visual exploration of Indigenous teachings and values. It reflects the sacred number four in many Indigenous cultures, with each panel representing a different season, direction, medicine, and overall, the circle and seasons of life.

“Returning to Our Roots” spans nearly a city block installed on four panels totaling approximately 200 feet in length and 9 feet in height.

This project – the largest we’ve undertaken and over two years in the making – represents reconciliation in action by honouring and celebrating Indigenous culture in our neighbourhood. The mural is also a beautiful example of collaboration and community, and I want to thank the committee and all the partners involved in bringing this project to life, adding vibrancy downtown.

FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO REGISTER

Winter is the perfect time to cozy up with great food while supporting our downtown restaurants! Events like food festivals highlight the incredible dining options we have downtown, especially in the slower winter months.

Fried Chicken Fest is in full swing, running until Saturday, January 25, with four Downtown BIZ members competing for the crown. Following that, Burger It Forward 2025 launches February 1, running all month to promote local dining and highlight Canadian ranchers and beef farmers.

The 2025 winter season of our Downtown Farmers’ Market at Cityplace kicks off on Thursday, February 13. Jump into the skywalks and come scoop up local fresh food and artisan products. Did you know Downtown Winnipeg BIZ members can host a stall at the Market for FREE!

For more information, or to become a vendor

Thank you,

Kate Fenske, CEO
Downtown Winnipeg BIZ