Sod-Turning Event



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The redevelopment of the Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex officially got underway today, November 2, on a clear but breezy morning. Present at the sod-turning ceremony were Manitoba Premier Gary Doer; Joy Smith, Member of Parliament for Kildonan-St. Paul; and City of Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz.

The facility was closed to the public on September 30, 2007. In October, the construction tender was awarded to Man-Shield Construction at a cost of $9.4 million. Demolition and pile driving are scheduled to start in the next few weeks.

The complex will reopen to the public in phases as work is completed. The official opening is tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2008 to coincide with a break in Cindy Klassen's training schedule.

The rejuvenated complex will incorporate numerous site enhancements and building improvements, including the new West End Library. The library will feature over 6000 sq. ft. of accessible space, a larger collection of 30,000 items, more computer workstations, new furnishings, and shared meeting space.

ARCHITECTURAL VIEWS
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Project Introduction

An exciting new project is underway! The West End Library, located at the corner of Ellice and Arlington, is being relocated to the recently renamed Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex at 999 Sargent Avenue [ Map, picture at left], a little more than a kilometre from its current location. (Full news release below)

The new 6,000 square foot facility will offer the West End community significant improvements in library services and amenities. From increased study and reading space to improved collections, from joint programming opportunities and additional computer workstations to a universally accessible layout and increased parking, the new library will better meet the needs of library patrons and members of the community who use the Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex.

News Release

August 2, 2007 - Winnipeg’s West End Library will be relocating as part of the soon-to-be renovated Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex, 999 Sargent Avenue.

The existing West End Branch, 823 Ellice Avenue, is being relocated as part of the multi-use regional facility serving residents of the west end and other parts of the city. The relocated branch will include over 6,000 sq. ft. of accessible space, a collection of 30,000 items, increased computer workstations, new furnishings, and shared meeting space with the new facility.

“This project has provided us with a unique opportunity to co-locate two primary community service activities in a new multi-use facility.” said Mayor Katz.

“Canada’s New Government is proud to work in partnership to get things done for the people of Manitoba,” said the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen’s Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of Western Economic Diversification. “Our collaborative efforts will help to make the West End Library a gathering place for ideas and new experiences for Winnipeggers.”

“The Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex is becoming a great asset for the community with the addition of modern library facilities,” said Manitoba Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Steve Ashton. “With the great success of the Millennium Library and new developments in on line services and equipment to draw upon, this new branch will be a state of the art resource for young and old.”

“This is going to be a wonderful new library for the West End community and Cindy Klassen users, a facility that opens up new programming opportunities while offering enhanced collections and new services.” said Rick Walker, Manager, Library Services.

The Winnipeg Partnership Agreement (WPA) is funding the $1.6 million library project, which will be relocated within the newly renovated Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex.

Funds for the new West End Library are provided under Component II- Building Better Neighbourhoods. The WPA supports the revitalization of older neighbourhoods and the development of projects that respond to community needs.

The Winnipeg Partnership Agreement was signed in May 2004 and represents a five-year, $75 million commitment by the governments of Canada (through Western Economic Diversification Canada), Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg to strengthen our neighbourhoods, promote economic development and enable Aboriginal citizens to fully enjoy Winnipeg’s economic and social opportunities. For program details, interested parties are encouraged to consult the WPA website.

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