Southern Chiefs’ Organization adjusts cost of Hudson’s Bay redevelopment project
Posted March 19, 2025 5:51 pm.
Last Updated March 19, 2025 6:43 pm.
As we walk through the historic Hudson’s Bay Company building in downtown Winnipeg, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization shared their first update on the redevelopment project since the departure of senior officials in the organization, revealing plans for a mixed-use space celebrating First Nations culture and promoting reconciliation by 2028.
The landmark former Hudson Bay building, now in the hands of the Southern Chiefs Organization as of 2022, has plans to create a mixed-use space that includes housing, a health and healing center, and cultural facilities.
While the project is moving ahead, the initial price tag of $130 million, has faced delays and cost increases, now projected at $310 million, which Grand Chief Jerry Daniels attributes largely to external including tariffs.
“The impacts will be on the materials we have to buy, so that’s going to change and fluctuate prices,” said Grand Chief Daniels.
The development project which has created over 1,000 jobs, with 77 pre cent whom are from First Nation Communities, will still include 373 housing units, including 200 affordable units for First Nations citizens, a major atrium, a rooftop garden, and a monument for residential and day-school survivors.
While the Hudson’s Bay Company recently filed creditor protection, the Grand Chief says it won’t have an impact.
“We wish Richard Baker well, he really took the lead in economic reconciliation with selling us back this building,” said Grand Chief Daniels.
While the project continues to move in the right direction, SCO has faced some internal challenges, after Grand Chief Daniels took a leave of absence last year, following an incident in Ottawa.
“It was an unfortunate incident, and I am absolutely thankful that I have been able to get the support of the community and the Chiefs, and I want to thank Aurora at the time that stepped in at the time to help me with my personal issues.”
The project is set to be completed in 2028.
