Yesterday, the ground was broken for a multi-million dollar development of an urban reserve in Brandon.

A ceremony was held with officials from Gambler First Nation, the City of Brandon, and provincial and federal governments.

The 3.5-hectare site is located on Brandon’s north hill.

The project has been in the works since 2016 when the first nation came to Brandon to purchase the land, they also had to go through the process with the federal government of getting reserve status for the land.

The main reserve for the Gambler First Nation is 132 km northwest of Brandon and is one of the smallest indigenous communities in Canada with a population of around 400 people.

Phase one of the project will begin in the next month with a gas station, gaming centre, and a pair of retail units employing 20 – 30 people. Future plans also include more retailers, offices, and a hotel.

The total cost is estimated at $50 million.