History
Our newly opened facility replaces our original building that had been on Beach Street. (Technically, behind Beach Street, tucked behind Kent Road School!). Originally constructed in the 1950’s, the building underwent various additions/renovations, and even survived a fire in the early 1970’s. During its existence, it housed many activities, both sporting and social, and served the East Elmwood community well.
On Wednesday, March 9th of 2011, the Community Centre was destroyed by a fire, later confirmed to be arson.
Devastated by this loss, plans were soon underway to replace the facility. In July of the same year, the East Kildonan-Transcona Community Committee passed a recommendation calling the city’s public services department to provide estimates on rebuilding the centre, and requesting that said cost be included in the City of Winnipeg’s 2012 capital budget.
A series of community consultations ensued. Community members and stakeholders voiced wishes, hopes and concerns, and it was agreed that a new location at Keenleyside Park would be a more desirable place to build a brand new building. One common desire was for a full size gymnasium, something we never had in the past.
Together with BridgemanCollaborative Architecture, the City of Winnipeg, the General Council of Winnipeg Community Centres and East Elmwood Community Centre Board members, our 11,000 sf new building was designed, complete with a full size gym, Multi-Purpose Room, Kitchen and office. A brand new outdoor rink will be ready for skating this winter. The design of our building has received a City of Winnipeg Access Award, as all aspects of the building were built barrier-free. We are also awaiting LEED Silver designation.
Funding for the redevelopment came from the Recreation and Leisure Infrastructure Program, jointly supported by the Province of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg plus funds from the city’s insurance reserve fund. Additional funding from a federal Canada 150 Infrastructure Fund grant will further assist with amenities and equipment at our centre. Kent Road School students showed their commitment to our centre and fundraised $738.65 towards the project.
We are now open and excited to bring programming and events back into our community!
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