Our Comments on CentrePlan 2050

Our Comments on CentrePlan 2050


What is CentrePlan 2050?
CentrePlan 2050 is a long-term strategy designed to shape investment and development in Downtown Winnipeg over the next 30 years. This plan will focus on transforming:

The appearance of Downtown: Enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of parks, streets, and buildings.
Transportation: Improving how people move around Downtown.
Overall experience: Enhancing the quality of life and attractiveness of Downtown for residents and visitors.

Overall, the draft CentrePlan 2050 looks promising for Winnipeg. It outlines steps to address climate change and aims to make Downtown greener. However, there are areas where more action is needed:

  • Maintenance of Green Infrastructure: Commit to funding green spaces, and other green infrastructure.
  • Energy Efficiency: Incentivize deep energy retrofits and net-zero ready buildings.
  • Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local environmental groups and support community-based climate projects.
  • There is also a need for more information on how this plan aligns with other policies, like the Community Energy Investment Roadmap (CEIR).

What is Missing from CentrePlan 2050?

The Manitoba Eco-Network believes to fully address the needs of Downtown Winnipeg, the final plan should include:

  • Weather Protection: Improve infrastructure to make the pedestrian environment safer and more accessible in all weather conditions.
  • Energy Efficiency: Incentivize deep energy retrofits and net-zero ready buildings.
  • Green Streetscaping: Ensure green infrastructure is developed throughout urban areas, not just in entertainment and tourist spots.
  • Cooling Centers: Increase the number of cooling centers in Downtown Winnipeg.
  • Ground Source Energy: Install ground source energy systems when updating roads or underground infrastructure.
  • Public Washrooms: Provide more public washrooms to encourage pedestrian traffic and reduce environmental issues related to the lack of facilities.

To read our full comments on CentrePlan 2050, please click here.