Manitoba government invests $2 million in downtown summer safety
Posted May 21, 2026 8:07 pm.
In an effort to improve safety in downtown Winnipeg this summer, the province is investing $2.2 million to support five organizations that strictly focus on community and neighbourhood support.
Around $750,000 of the funding will go to both the Downtown Community Safety Partnership Inc. and the Downtown Winnipeg Business Improvement Zone. $300,000 will go to the West End Biz., $2500,000 for the Exchange District Biz., and $150,000 to the West Broadway Biz.
“Organizations that ensure that everybody feels safe to come down to downtown Winnipeg and enjoy the summer season,” said Matt Wiebe, Minister of Justice.
The money will help make downtown safer through community outreach, de-escalation, wellness support, and stronger partnerships. Organizations can also use the funding for security upgrades like cameras, alarms, fencing, and vandalism repairs.
“We are excited to see what this coordinated effort between the province, the different businesses, and the city looks like to support small businesses and organizations like us,” said Brenden Gali, the general manager of Public Domain.
Mayor Scott Gillingham says the partnership between the province, city, businesses, and community organizations will help make downtown more welcoming for everyone.
“Winnipeg is growing. We’re building Winnipeg and our communities are changing. So, we need government and community partners always working together on practical solutions for the people of our community,” said Mayor Gillingham.
Part of the investment will fund the community safety wayfinders program, which works with indigenous- led groups and outreach teams.
The $2.2 million funding is part of the Manitoba Broader Safer Neighbourhoods, Safer Downtowns and Public Safety Strategy.
