Thousands turn out to clean up Downtown Winnipeg

Thousands of people came out to downtown Winnipeg to take part in the annual cleanup event.

Winnipeggers came out in droves on Thursday to show their community pride and help make downtown Winnipeg a more beautiful place.

Downtown Winnipeg BIZ hosted its annual spring cleanup event on Thursday morning, with more than 1,200 volunteers from over 100 businesses, non-profits and community groups taking part.

The organization noted that this is its largest-ever turnout, adding that demand was so high it had to close registration early.

“What today shows is there so many people that care about this community and this neighbourhood,” said Kate Fenske, CEO of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ.

“It’s great to see everyone just pitching in, and we’re going to see more of that throughout the coming months.”

Throughout the morning, volunteers worked to clean up the area, pick up litter and maintain public spaces.

According to Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, this event is part of its ongoing efforts to improve the downtown experience and support local businesses.

“A clean neighbourhood is absolutely critical,” Fenske said.

“It shows how people feel and really influences the perception of downtown. So, if it’s not clean, if it doesn’t look well cared for, that really has a negative impact on what people think and feel about downtown.”

Going forward, Downtown Winnipeg BIZ has created a new program to allow for smaller community cleanups. Through this initiative, groups can select their preferred time and date, and Downtown BIZ will provide supplies and guidance. More information is available online.

• With files from CTV’s Scott Andersson