A large crowd packed the St-Pierre-Jolys arena Wednesday evening for a major announcement that brought cheers, handshakes, and more than a few teary smiles: the Manitoba government is investing $5 million into a new multi-use cultural and recreational campus for the village and surrounding communities.
The new “Le Rendez-Vous Community, Culture and Recreation Campus” will expand and revitalize the current arena, transforming it into a vibrant hub of activity, learning, and celebration, and preserving the area’s rich French heritage in the process.
“This is just amazing,” said Mayor Raymond Maynard, after the announcement. “You could tell that they wanted to do something for St. Pierre, and they came through. We really appreciate it. It gives us hope, and it’ll help us get even more support.”
Glen Simard, Manitoba’s Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations, made the announcement and praised the region’s commitment to community and culture.
“Bonjour, everyone,” Simard began, addressing the lively crowd. “I’m very proud to announce $5 million for the development of Le Rendez-Vous. This isn’t just for St-Pierre, it’s for the entire region.”
Simard emphasized that the province is investing across southeastern Manitoba, mentioning De Salaberry also received $1.5 million from the same funding program. “This isn’t one town over another. It’s all about growing together,” he said.
The funding comes from the Manitoba GRO (Growth, Renewal and Opportunities for Municipalities) program. A one-time grant opportunity launched in late 2024 that received over 200 applications province-wide.
The St-Pierre-Jolys project, estimated at $25 million, will be built in phases, with fundraising already underway.
A place to belong, a place to grow
Mayor Maynard struck an emotional chord when he took the stage, reflecting on the arena’s history and its importance to the community.
“I remember being one of the guys in the '70s helping reinforce the beams with quarter-inch steel,” he said. “This arena was built by volunteers, by people who cared. And today, we keep that spirit alive.”
But he stressed that this new centre isn’t just about hockey.
“We need more than just a rink. Our region needs a gathering place, somewhere we can share our cultures, be active, and create something special together,” Maynard said.
The centre will feature a range of community-driven spaces, including:
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A revitalized arena
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Large space for the Jolys Regional Library
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Indoor play zones and daycare
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Creative and wellness spaces
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A cultural and heritage hall
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Event and concert spaces
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Eventually, a new indoor turf fieldhouse with a walking track
The project is being designed to connect with nearby facilities like Parc Carillon, École Réal-Bérard, and the St-Pierre Museum, creating what Simard called “the central meeting place for culture and community in southern Manitoba.”
Building together - regionally
Mayor Maynard also highlighted a recent Memorandum of Understanding signed with nine neighbouring municipalities, including Steinbach, La Broquerie, Ste. Anne, Hanover, Stuartburn, De Salaberry, Tache, Montcalm and the town of Ste. Anne, to support shared regional infrastructure.
“This isn’t just about St-Pierre,” he said. “It’s about all of us, working together to build something meaningful for the next generation.”
What’s next?
After the event, Mayor Maynard explained what comes next.
“We’ve got to get blueprints done and go to tender. Phase One is going to focus on the existing building, we’ll be removing and replacing the arena floor and doing some upgrades,” he said.
When asked if construction would start right away, Maynard explained that the timeline is a bit longer.
“We’re aiming to start in March 2026. It takes time, the tenders, the planning, the designs. But we’re getting started now.”
The Le Rendez-Vous project will be delivered in three phases:
• Phase 1: Complete renovation of the St-Pierre-Jolys arena, including a new floor, upgraded ice-making system, modernized locker rooms and bleachers, and the creation of a new 60-space daycare facility.
• Phase 2: Development of a heritage hall showcasing local history, languages, arts, and cultures; construction of the new Jolys Regional Library; creation of multipurpose spaces for recreation, sports, and events; a new community hall, café, and expanded parking.
• Phase 3: Construction of a turf pavilion for indoor sports, community programming, and special events.
Community spirit is on full display
Residents and local leaders left the event energized and hopeful. The mood was electric, a mix of pride in the past and excitement for the future.
“This will be a place where you can grab a coffee, watch a game, join a book club, or just be with friends,” Maynard said. “Les Rendez-Vous is about creating a space where everyone feels welcome, where we all belong.”
As the applause rang through the old arena one more time, one thing was clear: this was a win not just for St-Pierre-Jolys, but for the entire southeast region of Manitoba.