Building Canada strong by investing in the Downtown Y Redevelopment Project

Canada NewsWire

WINNIPEG, MB, Sept. 28, 2026

WINNIPEG, MB, Sept. 28, 2026 /CNW/ -- Building a strong Canada starts with investing in the modern and reliable infrastructure that makes it possible to increase housing supply and create resilient communities.

The Build Communities Strong Fund is investing $51 billion in a wide range of infrastructure projects across the country that support economic prosperity, housing, sport, education, health, transit, and climate adaptation.

To that end, the federal government is investing more than $8 million in the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg's Downtown Y Redevelopment Project through the Direct Delivery stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund.

Built in 1913, the Downtown Y has offered vital services, safe spaces, and programming to downtown residents for generations. The redevelopment will modernize the historic space into a more accessible, sustainable and inclusive hub that meets the evolving needs of Winnipeg's diverse community. The improvements will include upgrades to elevators, changerooms, aquatics and fitness areas, and energy systems while expanding newcomer and mental health programs and community classrooms.

The Build Communities Strong Fund is a cornerstone of the Government of Canada's plan to build the infrastructure needed to build Canada strong – today and for generations to come.

Quotes

"Community spaces are where people come together, access important services, learn, stay active and build connections. Investing in local, grassroots infrastructure means residents will live healthier, more connected lives. This funding will help transform Winnipeg's historic Downtown Y into a more accessible and welcoming space, expanding opportunities for recreation, learning and essential services for people across the community for generations to come."

Ben Carr, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre

"Investments like this demonstrate what can be achieved when governments and community organizations work together toward a shared vision. The redevelopment of the Downtown Y will renew an important community asset, help strengthen Winnipeg's downtown core, and ensure residents have access to modern spaces that support learning, wellness, and community engagement. This project will benefit Winnipeg families and residents for decades to come."

Ginette Lavack, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services

"Today's research increasingly shows that purpose-built, safe third spaces don't just help struggling areas; they're a bellwether of civic health and prosperity. By investing in the renaissance of Winnipeg's downtown core, the Government of Canada is laying a cornerstone for radical hope, transformative belonging, and economic vitality for our families and businesses long into the future."

Cordella Friesen, President & CEO, YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg

Quick Facts

The federal government is investing $8,059,309 in this project through the Direct Delivery stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund, while the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg is contributing $3,460,690.
Starting in 2026-27, the Build Communities Strong Fund will deliver funding through three major streams:
- A Provincial and Territorial stream, which provides $17.2 billion over 10 years, including $5 billion in health infrastructure funding over three years;
- A Direct Delivery stream, which provides $6 billion over 10 years, including $1 billion over 4 years as part of a Local Impact Stream that is being delivered by Canada's Regional Development Agencies to support community infrastructure projects with local impact; and,
- A Community stream (formerly the Canada Community-Building Fund), which provides $27.8 billion over 10 years and, indexed at 2% to deliver $3 billion per year ongoing.
The Buy Canadian Policy is an important part of the Build Communities Strong Fund. It will help ensure that more of every public dollar goes right into the Canadian economy – creating Canadian careers, using Canadian resources, and benefiting Canadian communities.
The Build Communities Strong Fund will be a force multiplier in infrastructure – with funding that will be matched by nearly $17 billion from provinces, and additional billions leveraged through municipal and territorial partnerships as well as private capital. The fund will also boost Canada's GDP by $95 billion over the next decade.
Under the Direct Delivery stream, at least 10% of the funding will go towards investments in Indigenous communities.
Project funding is subject to the signing of a contribution agreement between the Government of Canada and the recipient.

Associated Links

SOURCE Department of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities