A trio of area businesses are paying it forward by making significant contributions to the Transcona Centennial Square project.

The Transcona Business Improvement Zone recently announced that three local businesses contributed $245,000 towards the $2.4 million cost of the project, which is aimed at recognizing the neighbourhood’s 100th anniversary.

The three businesses include Geoff and Regan Archambault of Century 21 Realty, Wyatt Dowling Insurance and New Flyer Industries.

The contributions were part of a major fundraising campaign undertaken by the Transcona BIZ .

BIZ executive director Wendy Galagan said the private sector contributions were welcome additions.

The Archambaults’ contribution will go to toward the cost of a performance pavilion while Wyatt Dowling’s will be used for a community wall of fame. New Flyer’s funding will be used for the Peace Water Fountain.

Regan Archambault said it was important for she and her husband to contribute to the community that has supported their business over the years.

"We’ve been involved in the community for quite some time," she said. "When we were approached with this sponsorship opportunity we were quite happy to get on board with this because it will definitely be an asset to the area and we can’t wait to see it come to life."

Wyatt Dowling president Curtis Wyatt said the decision to contribute to the project was a no-brainer since his father started his insurance business in Transcona 40 years ago.

"Our business was founded 40 years ago directly across the street from the new Transcona Square," he said.

"We’ve remained in this community since then and it seemed only natural to continue to create a safe environment for families to go and enjoy the outdoors as a long standing part of this community."

Galagan said the Centennial Square project will have a lasting impact on the community  
"It will be a community gathering site with year-round programming that will offer a location for the business community, residents, organizations and associations to meet and gather to celebrate the community," she said.

prescott.james@canstarnews.com