Communities across western Manitoba are set to benefit from more than $300,000 in provincial funding aimed at improving recreation facilities, arts spaces and local infrastructure.
The Manitoba government announced $300,750 in funding through its From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for All program, supporting five projects in Binscarth, Elkhorn, Miniota and Birtle.
Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard said the investments are intended to strengthen community spaces where residents can gather, stay active and celebrate local culture. He noted that facilities such as community centres, arenas and arts venues play an important role in the social and economic well-being of rural communities.
Among the projects receiving support is the Miniota Community Centre, which has been awarded $100,000 for facility upgrades. The funding will go toward new locker and dressing rooms, accessible washrooms, a dedicated officials room and a Zamboni room. The improvements are expected to enhance accessibility while meeting the needs of a growing community.
Another $100,000 will be invested in upgrades and modernization work at the Birtle Centre for the Arts, helping preserve and improve a key cultural facility in the region.
Additional funding recipients include:
- The Municipality of Russell-Binscarth, receiving $40,000 to upgrade the outdoor pool in Binscarth.
- The Rural Municipality of Wallace-Woodworth, receiving $43,250 for a feasibility study examining expansion opportunities in Elkhorn, including the potential development of a spa.
- The Municipality of Prairie View, receiving $17,500 for upgrades to the Birtle arena.
Jeff Poppel, chair of the facilities enhancement board at the Miniota Community Centre, welcomed the funding announcement, saying the improvements will help expand capacity and make the facility more accessible for users. He added the upgrades will ensure the centre remains a vibrant gathering place for residents well into the future.
The From the Ground Up program provides grants of up to $100,000 to municipalities, non-profit organizations and Northern Affairs community councils. The funding supports community revitalization initiatives, youth programming and capital projects that help strengthen local infrastructure and enhance quality of life in Manitoba communities.
The latest investment is expected to improve recreation, arts and community facilities across Westman while helping ensure those spaces remain accessible and sustainable for years to come.
