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Families and community members in Winnipeg’s Centennial neighbourhood gathered on Saturday, September 21, to celebrate the grand reopening of Giizhigooweyaabikwe Park following a major redevelopment. The revitalized park, located at 242 Lizzie St., now features a new half-court basketball court, community water fountain, upgraded lighting, and improved pathways, offering a vibrant and safe space for local residents to enjoy.
“Giizhigooweyaabikwe Park is the heart of this neighbourhood, much like its namesake Leslie Spillet, who is well-known as one of the community’s kookums,” said Bernadette Smith, Manitoba’s Minister of Housing, Addictions, and Homelessness. “This important project will benefit this community for years to come.”
The park, named in honour of Leslie Spillett in 2018, underwent significant upgrades, including new fencing, seating areas with benches and picnic tables, a bike rack, and freshly laid sod. Leslie Spillett, a long-time community advocate, expressed the significance of the redevelopment for the Centennial neighbourhood.
"It is also restoring Indigenous identity and connection to the original language of this land."
“The redevelopment of Giizhigooweyaabikwe Park will continue to bring children and families together to play, celebrate one another, find peace and safety in the land, and make good and happy memories,” said Spillett. “For me, it is also restoring Indigenous identity and connection to the original language of this land.”
Government leaders echoed the importance of creating inclusive spaces for Indigenous communities. Ben Carr, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre, said, “Today’s grand opening demonstrates our shared commitment to creating more inclusive and vibrant Indigenous communities.”
The total cost of the project was approximately $355,500, with the community water fountain funded through the Canada Community-Building Fund, and the basketball court, seating, and landscaping covered by the City’s Parks and Recreation Enhancement Program. The park lighting upgrades were also part of the funding, along with the demolition of the park’s closed wading pool.
Councillor Vivian Santos, representing the Point Douglas area, praised the project as a reflection of the community’s strength: “This revitalized space, named in honour of Leslie Spillett, reflects the vibrant spirit of this community and creates a welcoming environment for everyone.”
With its new amenities and improved design, Giizhigooweyaabikwe Park will continue to serve as a gathering place for generations, fostering connections and supporting a sense of belonging among residents.