Budget amendments to see downtown safety group move into Millennium Library

The City of Winnipeg’s approved budget amendments will offer a saving grace for the former Community Connections space at the Millennium Library.

During the 2025 budget vote, council approved a proposal by the Downtown Community Safety Partnership (DCSP) to move into the space and offer its services.

This move comes after the funding was cut for Community Connections, forcing the space to close at the end of last year. Community Connections provided a culturally-safe, low-barrier space for library patrons to access information and resources.

Under the amendments, DCSP could move into the space for a trial run as soon as April 1.

“So happy that the Downtown Community Safety Partnership has offered to do a pilot and perhaps something that’s going to last longer term,” said Coun. Jeff Browaty (North Kildonan).

“Most recently since that meeting, we’ve heard they’re going to spend the time and the energy to meet with Indigenous groups, to meet with other downtown stakeholders to make sure that they provide their services in a way that makes the most sense for Winnipeg.”

Winnipeg city council’s budget amendments also include $17 million for the decommissioning of the Arlington Bridge – up slightly from the $16.9 million previously proposed. It also added $5 million for the initial detailed design and engineering work.

The budget does not include the proposed $166.3 million to build the bridge.

The Arlington Bridge closed indefinitely in 2023 due to structural issues.

The full report and other budget amendments can be found online.