Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

Network of river trails, parks on agenda

PARTS of Winnipeg's riverfront could one day be linked to neighbourhoods through a network of green trails and parks, with rapid transit extending to areas such as Point Douglas.

This fall, a task force struck to create a vision for what Point Douglas and other riverfront neighbourhoods could look like in the next 20 years will unveil its preliminary plans and start public consultations.

Jim August, chief executive officer of The Forks North Portage Partnership, is co-chairing the task force with city property director Deepak Joshi.

August said the idea is to create a long-term plan for pathways, greenways, and potential residential and commercial development in areas along Winnipeg's waterfront. Point Douglas will be a key area, he said, since there is a lot opportunity for park space, housing and commercial development.

August said the preliminary plans will not identify specific sites that could be developed, since the idea is to get input from neighbourhood residents first. A more detailed plan will be put together over the winter, he said.

Consultation will begin in Point Douglas this fall, August said, and the task force will also consult with Waterfront Drive, north St. Boniface, Norwood, Armstrong Point and south Broadway.

"We do know there's a great opportunity for park development in Point Douglas, there's a good opportunity for some residential development, rapid transit is looking at going through there. It's a great location, and it's a beautiful area," August said. "It's been somewhat neglected for a number of years."

August said the idea is to take a cue from The Forks and better link adjacent neighbourhoods with the riverfront.

Last week, Premier Greg Selinger confirmed the province asked the Forks North Portage Partnership to come up with specific ideas for developing a provincial park in Point Douglas. The province has contributed funds to the waterfront-planning process.

August said governments have made it clear public park space is a priority. Whether an area is designated a provincial park is up to the government, he said. "It's a work in progress."

The City of Winnipeg said the city is collaborating with North Forks to examine the idea of greenways.

jen.skerritt@freepress.mb.ca

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition July 27, 2011 A4

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