To recognize the unprecedented success achieved by Cindy Klassen at the 2006 Torino Olympics, Mayor Sam Katz and City Council renamed the Sargent Park Recreation Complex in Cindy’s honour. In the fall of 2007, the multipurpose facility was closed to the public and the construction tender was awarded to Man-Shield Construction. The complex then underwent a substantial upgrade as part of the city’s revitalization plan for community recreation facilities.

Along with many building improvements and site enhancements, the rejuvenated Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex incorporates the new West End Library, relocated from its premises on Ellice Avenue. The library features over 6,000 sq. ft. of accessible space, an updated collection, more computer workstations, new furnishings and shared meeting space. Attending the February 20 Grand Opening were the Honourable Gary Doer, Premier of Manitoba; the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Democratic Reform); Mayor Sam Katz; and Cindy Klassen, six-time Olympic medalist and four-time world champion.

Special thanks to Susan Fraser, President of the Friends of the Winnipeg Public Library, and to Winnipeg Library Board member Rita Burgess, representing Scotiabank, for their generous financial support to the new West End Library.