November 10, 2015
Sod-turning Marks the Beginning of New Fieldhouse at Dakota Community Centre
Representatives from the Province of Manitoba, City of Winnipeg and the Dakota Community Centre today participated in a sod-turning that officially marked the start of construction on a new multi-use fieldhouse at the Dakota Community Centre.
“This is an outstanding example of a community coming together with government to create a first-class recreation facility that will improve the quality of life for Winnipeggers,” said Municipal Government Minister Caldwell. “The indoor component of this project will allow for the staging of numerous sports programs and year-round events that encourage active living.”
“I am proud of the City’s contribution to this exciting Fieldhouse expansion at Dakota Community Centre because while one of the great benefits of expanding services available through our facilities is a stronger body and mind for those who use it, we also expand our ability to build a healthier community and strengthen families – it’s a return on investment that is truly immeasurable,” said Mayor Brian Bowman, City of Winnipeg.
“We’re delighted that the hard work and commitment of many to this important expansion is becoming a reality,” said Tom Thiessen, board president, Dakota Community Centre. “This new fieldhouse will be an integral part of the expanded program and service offerings we’re able to provide to our community.”
The multi-use fieldhouse will include:
- a main floor gymnasium which can accommodate six volleyball courts or three basketball courts, as well as other court sports in a common overlaid court area;
- 30,000 square feet of open space for large-scale events;
- a three-lane walking/running track, sprint track and exercise equipment areas on the mezzanine (upper) level;
- centralized dressing rooms with shower facilities and washrooms;
- multiple storage areas for sports equipment and other supplies;
- mobile retractable bleachers which will be expandable for large spectator events;
- a canteen with a seating and eating area with viewing windows to gymnasium;
- a high-quality sound system;
- a covered and heated physical connection to the Jonathan Toews Sportsplex; and
- a drop-off area and additional parking.
The fieldhouse will be built to LEED Silver standards for energy efficiency and sustainability and be designated a Manitoba Power Smart Building.
Announced in 2013, site preparations and construction on the new 60,000-sq.-ft. multi-use fieldhouse is expected to commence later this fall, with an anticipated completion date of spring 2017. Funding commitments for the $17.9-million expansion project will be shared between the Province of Manitoba ($7 million), the City of Winnipeg ($6.7 million) and the Dakota Community Centre Inc. ($4.2 million).
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The Province of Manitoba is distributing this release on behalf of the governments of Manitoba and Winnipeg and the Dakota Community Centre.