Big changes are coming to Kilcona Park and work on the northeast Winnipeg greenspace is starting next week. The city is spending $6.1 million to improve accessibility, address aging infrastructure, and enhance amenities in the park over the next year or so. In a Friday news release, the city said work on a new road and multiuse path will begin Monday, August 24. The city said the roadway will improve connectivity within the park and create access for emergency vehicles and bus turnarounds near the Chris McCubbins Trail. Meanwhile, the city said a new pathway for cyclists and pedestrians will improve access to the park’s existing trail network. “As part of this work, we will add grasses and trees to enhance the area, increase shade, and support naturalization,” the city said in the release. Work on the roadway and path is expected to be finished in Fall 2027. The city said crews will also start upgrades to the existing off-leash dog area in the next few weeks to improve accessibility, drainage, and safety. New features include accessible entrances, benches and waste containers, and grading improvements to address areas that become muddy during wet weather. The city said the area will be open to the public during construction, but dogs will be required to remain on-leash until the new roadway is completed. “Throughout the work, all dogs in the area are required to be leashed. This will help us keep pets, dog owners, park visitors, and construction crews safe,” the release said. “Active work areas, loud noises, and changing ground conditions make the area too unpredictable for a safe off-leash experience.” Construction on the off-leash dog area is anticipated to wrap up next summer. Meantime, demolition of buildings and signage at the former Harbourview Recreation Complex will start in September. A city spokesperson previously told CTV News the complex, first built in 1980, had fallen into disrepair, and the demolition will include asbestos abatement and remediation of all building elements. “This will address safety concerns, improve the site’s appearance, and create space for waterfront naturalization with planted grasses and trees,” the release said. The city expects demolition and removal work will be completed before winter, while naturalization and planting will happen in the spring. The golf course will remain open to the public during demolition and construction, while the pro shop is moving to a temporary location in the northwest parking lot for the time being. More details are available on the city’s website.
