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Advocacy for downtown at City Hall
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Changes are happening at City Hall with Council gearing up to make some key decisions that impact downtown. Yesterday, I spoke to the Executive Policy Committee about key agenda items: the Housing Accelerator Fund, a new mandate for CentreVenture and opening Portage and Main to pedestrians.
Housing Accelerator Fund
Increasing downtown Winnipeg’s residential density is a key strategy in our organization’s three-year strategic plan as more people living downtown will contribute to vibrancy, safety and economic activity. We believe the plan for the Housing Accelerator Fund will encourage more investment in Winnipeg and help build more homes downtown.
We understand developing downtown can be difficult with higher costs, increased time and other challenges. The fund helps remove barriers to encourage more affordable, diverse and climate-resilient communities. We’re happy to see an initial focus on mixed-income and multi-family affordable projects downtown, along with the program’s ability to be coupled with Tax Increment Financing.
CentreVenture
CentreVenture is Winnipeg’s downtown development agency. Since 1999, it has provided leadership in the planning, development, coordination and implementation of projects and activities downtown. Both of our organizations play a critical role in strategically planning the downtown and we work collaboratively with additional partners to create a downtown full of people that drives economic activity.
The City of Winnipeg 2024 preliminary budget calls for CentreVenture to focus on housing in Winnipeg’s core as part of a new mandate. We believe CentreVenture is well-positioned to:
- Administer downtown-focused Housing Accelerator fund programs;
- Focus on the redevelopment of the Graham Avenue corridor under CentrePlan 2050;
- And provide strategic direction on the future of downtown.
Portage and Main:
The Downtown BIZ believes the intersection at Portage and Main should be open to pedestrians. More street level activity increases vibrancy and safety downtown, and a major and historic intersection in our city should be inclusive of and accessible to all Winnipeggers.
Some BIZ members have expressed concerns about decommissioning or closing the City-owned portion of the concourse. Decommissioning the underground would have a huge impact on the livelihoods of the businesses within the “Circus” under Portage and Main and could impact the success of other businesses connected to the City-owned portion of the underground.
Whatever Council decides, we are here to support downtown businesses and want to collaborate with the City to find the best solutions and mitigate any negative impacts. We will continue to share updates on these important decisions following City Council’s meeting on March 21.
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Take a seat and be part of reconciliation downtown
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In three weeks, join us for our next Downtown Speaker Series featuring the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Cathy Merrick.
Why join us?
- Learn about the urbanization of First Nations peoples and how we can work together.
- Build understanding and connection for an inclusive downtown.
- Hear from key decision-makers and the community.
- Stay updated on plans and developments that impact downtown.
- Connect with fellow businesses.
Date: Thursday, April 4
Time: 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Doors open at 9:45 a.m.
Location: Alt Hotel, 310 Donald St, Winnipeg, MB
Sign up today! Registration closes Thursday, March 28.
For questions or further information, please contact events@downtownwinnipegbiz.com.
REGISTER NOW
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Cheers to women entrepreneurs for International Women’s Day
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Empowered women empower women 🥂
Last week, we celebrated International Women’s Day, taking a moment to appreciate the incredible contributions of women around the world.
At Downtown BIZ, we are proud of our predominantly woman-led senior management team and gender balanced board of directors. We also love celebrating so many exceptional women leading businesses in retail, dining, fitness, and professional services throughout our downtown.
A heartfelt thank you to all the women entrepreneurs who continue to empower and inspire our community through their work, making a significant difference in our downtown. We encourage you to visit and support Downtown BIZ members whenever you can – here are just a few of the businesses run by women entrepreneurs in our zone!
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Get the Startup scoop at RBC Convention Centre
April 18
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Ever had a business idea you've been itching to explore but never took the plunge?
This April, head to RBC Convention Centre and dive into the Canadian entrepreneurship scene at the Startup Canada Tour!
Connect with entrepreneurs from across the country, pick up tips from industry pros, and use that know-how to kickstart your early-stage business. Early bird pricing now available until March 28.
GIVE YOUR IDEA A TRY
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As always, please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions:
204-958-4640
info@downtownwinnipegbiz.com
Thank you,
Kate Fenske, CEO
Downtown Winnipeg BIZ
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