Air Canada Window Park has reopened after getting a major facelift. The park was fenced off two years ago after the city announced it was renovating the area. The entire cost of the redevelopment came out to $3.575 million. “The space has been reimagined on the work of so many people who contributed to this place and the focus of making it more connected, more welcoming,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham at the unveiling Wednesday. The city said the design of the park —located next to the intersection of Carlton Street and Portage Avenue —was inspired by Indigenous stories of Turtle Island and features a multi-purpose stage as well as a storytelling area. It features a new colourful trellis, lighting, and a drinking fountain, and the entire park is sidewalk level. The artwork that was commissioned for the area in 2018 was also worked into the design. There is also a line from a poem called “River City” etched into the ground. Following the massive storm that hit the city Tuesday night, Gillingham said the new drainage system at the park also got tested. “None of you are standing in water, so we’re all good,” said Gillingham. Kate Fenske, the CEO of Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, said the city is celebrating so much more than just opening a park. It’s about having a space that reflects the voices of the people using it, she said. “It’s about honouring Indigenous culture and storytelling and helps make our downtown a more vibrant, inclusive, and connected neighbourhood,” said Fenske. “Public spaces play such an important role in the health and vitality of our downtown. They create opportunities for people to gather, to connect, to learn and to celebrate together, and that is the purpose of this space.” Gillingham said this is one more step in revitalizing and reimagining the city’s downtown. “The park is just one more part of that broader effort to re-energize downtown Winnipeg, piece by piece, project by project. So again, thank you to everyone who’s had a part to play in making this dream become a reality. Let’s continue to build downtown, a downtown that works for everybody,” said Gillingham.
