Home / Sports / Manitoba First Nations Eye New Arena Deal
Manitoba First Nations Eye New Arena Deal
7 Jul
Summary
- First Nations propose new arena on urban reserve land.
- City committee considers funding for a feasibility study.
- Potential arena could address ice rink shortage in Winnipeg.
A proposal for a new community arena at Naawi-Oodena, located on the former Kapyong Barracks lands in south Winnipeg, is advancing through city hall. The project, spearheaded by a group of Manitoba First Nations, aims to address a pressing need for more ice rinks within the city.
Last week, the city centre community committee voted to allocate $95,000 from the Land Dedication Reserve Fund to conduct a feasibility study. This study will explore the potential costs, infrastructure, traffic impact, and servicing requirements for a proposed 6,000-seat facility featuring multiple ice sheets and amenities.
While city planners initially noted the request didn't meet fund criteria, a councillor supported waiving rules due to potential benefits for Winnipeggers. The proposal could be influenced by an exclusivity agreement with True North, which expires in 2029, potentially limiting the scope of the arena to a community facility.
Both Hockey Manitoba and city planners have expressed interest, with Hockey Manitoba emphasizing the need for accessible recreation space and supporting feasibility testing for Indigenous-led initiatives. The executive policy committee is scheduled to review the funding matter soon.
