Winnipeg Free Press: Ottawa contributes $7.5M to Dakota Community Centre’s new arena project

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Leadership behind a south Winnipeg community centre hope $7.5 million federal investment will bring other levels of government to the table, as they prepare to build a new arena and rink.

Winnipeg South MP Terry Duguid announced the funding Monday, saying his government is throwing its weight behind a plan to expand facilities at the Dakota Community Centre.

“It’s the beating heart of our community here in southeast Winnipeg, and so my wish is for the other levels of government to get on board and work with us to really build something for the next generation,” Duguid said.

The funding will go toward a planned expansion that includes a fully accessible arena with dressing rooms, a new rink and a modern fitness area and ice plant. It will also feature a new front entrance and lobby, a food services facility and a child-care centre.

In total, the development could cost up to $50 million to complete and measure up to 60,000 square feet, said community centre president and CEO Michele Augert.

“It’s a lot of money, but we aren’t asking one group to take on one big chunk of it. We’re all going to come together and do our part,” Augert said.

“These spaces are more important then ever.… In building these strong communities, you need these amazing facilities that support all of the community connections and health and wellness activities.”

The federal funding will finance the first phase of project, which involves drafting structural designs, preparing the site for development and conducting public consultations, Augert said.

Read the full article here: Ottawa contributes $7.5M to Dakota Community Centre’s new arena project