Organizations get $2M to improve downtown safety

The provincial government is giving more than $2 million to improve safety in Winnipeg’s downtown this summer.

Five business organizations are receiving the funds “to build and enhance community partnerships that protect public safety with a focus on de-escalation and wellness,” a provincial news release Thursday stated.

The Downtown Community Safety Partnership and Downtown Winnipeg BIZ will each receive $750,000. The West End BIZ will get $300,000, the Exchange District BIZ $250,000 and the West Broadway BIZ $150,000.

“These investments are about bringing people, fun and life back to our downtown for another incredible summer,” Premier Wab Kinew said in the release.

They organizations may use funding for security upgrades, including cameras, alarm systems, anti-graffiti coatings, fencing or vandalism repairs.