Paddling Centre Project
Paddle Manitoba has had a long relationship with the City of Winnipeg's La Barriere Park. From Open Paddles to Instruction Courses, it has been the scene of many on the water activities over the life of the organization. But much has happened off the water during this time too. Paddle Manitoba worked to get the Canoe/Kayak Launch there improved, and more recently, to make use of the former washroom building near the launch.
This building became redundant with the construction of new washrooms at the main parking lot and was slated for demolition. Through a partnership with the City of Winnipeg, Paddle Manitoba has garnered use of this building for a Paddling Centre.
The Paddling Centre is envisioned as a place where equipment can be safely stored. A common question for our events at the park is whether we have canoes, kayaks, or stand up paddleboards, available to use. Unfortunately, our answer has been no due to outdoor storage challenges at the park in the past. It is hoped that the Paddling Centre will change this, making it easier to offer equipment and get more people out paddling!
Many improvements have already happened: the roof has been repaired and replaced, soffits and fascia have been changed, holes and other patching work to the walls has been completed, new doors have been installed and the interior has been painted. Further work to come includes interior racking, exterior painting, window repairs, and vegetation clearing. However, it is hoped that it can begin to be used sometime in 2024.
Many thanks go to the City of Winnipeg, Park Staff, and the Paddle Manitoba volunteers that have been involved with this project so far.
We're working on it!
The Paddling Centre at the Canoe/Kayak Launch drop off area at La Barriere Park.
Before repairs to the roof, fascia, and soffits.
New doors installed.
New soffits, fascia, and roof.
The interior waiting for paint and racking.
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