Manitoba Government Invests More Than $300,000 to Upgrade Arts and Recreation Infrastructure in Westman

The Manitoba government is investing $300,750 through the From the Ground up – Safe Healthy Communities for All program to support arts and recreation projects in Westman, improving accessibility and increasing capacity in growing communities, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard announced today.

“Strong communities need places where people can come together, stay active, celebrate local culture and build connections,” said Simard. “These investments will help ensure residents across Westman have access to modern, accessible arts and recreation facilities that enrich quality of life, support community pride and make rural Manitoba an even better place to live, work and raise a family. From community centres and arenas to arts facilities and recreational attractions, these projects will strengthen the social fabric of our communities and help them continue to grow and thrive for years to come.”

The following municipalities and organizations are receiving funding:

• Municipality of Russell-Binscarth – $40,000 to upgrade outdoor pool in Binscarth;
• Rural Municipality of Wallace-Woodworth – $43,250 for a feasibility study to explore a multi-use facility including a community hall and skating rink;
• Miniota Community Centre – $100,000 to upgrade facility including new locker and dressing rooms, accessible washrooms, a dedicated officials room and Zamboni room;
• Birtle Centre for the Arts – $100,000 to upgrade and modernize facility; and
• Municipality of Prairie View – $17,500 to upgrade the Birtle arena.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Manitoba government and the From the Ground Up program for this $100,000 investment in the Miniota Community Centre,” said Jeff Poppel, facilities enhancement board chair, Miniota Community Centre. “Constructing new locker rooms, washrooms and operational spaces will greatly enhance accessibility and support our growing community. We deeply appreciate the Manitoba government’s commitment to strengthening rural recreation through this local infrastructure funding. This support ensures our facility remains a vibrant, welcoming hub for generations to come.”

The From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for All program provides up to $100,000 to help non-profits, municipalities and northern affairs community councils fund community revitalization, youth programs and capital improvements that strengthen local infrastructure and support vibrant community life.

To learn more about the From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for All program, visit: https://gov.mb.ca/grants/.