If you've spent time in Brandon, you'll know firsthand how many people flock to the Park Community Centre.
Right in the heart of Brandon, the Community Centre is a meeting hub for so many, and it's set for a brand new facelift. As announced by the Manitoba government on Thursday, $6 million is being invested to support the revitalization of the Community Centre and non-profit child-care facility.
Jeff Fawcett is the mayor of Brandon and is thrilled that the government stepped up.
"It is great news, it was a promise that the provincial government made during their campaign," said Fawcett. "They now provided an update on how they will live up to that promise."
The Park Community Centre will host a variety of activities, including live music on a new stage, yoga classes, and gatherings for local community groups. There will also be record sales, creating a lively yet welcoming atmosphere.
A cornerstone of the community for almost 80 years, there will also be 62 new child-care spaces in the centre that will support families in Brandon.
"That's very important," added Fawcett. "Like all of our communities, you could put daycares in every corner and still not have enough. Any daycare additions are very important."
The current building will be demolished before the construction of the new building begins. Fawcett expects that process to start next fall, and he knows there will be many eyes on the progress for as long as it takes.
"It's in our core downtown, so that makes a difference; a lot is going on in downtown Brandon," ended Fawcett. "Initially, the plan was to revitalize the green space. There was a community outcry that had us look at rebuilding. To the province's credit, they've got themselves involved and took it to the next level."
Fawcett was unsure of how long it will take to complete the build but added that it will be worth the wait.
