Building What Matters
Summer 2026 marks the beginning of a 20+ million transformation of the Downtown Y into a modern, accessible, inclusive Community Hub that reflects the spirit of Winnipeg: resilient, diverse, and full of potential.
Stay informed with member updates on the project such as temporary area closures, program location changes, schedule adjustments, traffic flows and what is happening next. We are committed to remaining open throughout the project and our goal is to keep member disruptions to a bare minimum.
Thank you for your continued support of the Downtown Y, it is greatly appreciated!
Construction Timelines & Impacts
| ACTIVTY/IMPACTS | DATES |
| Construction expected to begin | Summer 2026 |
| Project completion | 2028 |
| Locker Rentals no longer available | June 1, 2026 |
| Construction RFP process begins | June 1, 2026 |
| Initial work areas: Main floor and Aquatic Centre |
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Please visit our Membership Sales & Experience team on your next visit! FAQs will be updated as needed.
Work is expected to begin the summer of 2026 with completion in 2028.
Yes. We are committed to remaining open throughout the project. Some areas may be temporarily closed or relocated, but a full closure is not expected.
At this time, work is planned to begin on the main floor and aquatic centre
Accessibility improvements to the Downtown Y is one of the main reasons for this project! Updates include:
- Universal changerooms
- Elevator access to all floors
- Barrier-free movement throughout the facility
- Accessible pool entry
Yes. Gendered changerooms will still be available at the Downtown Y. Mens and ladies changerooms will remain on the 2nd floor. A large Universal changeroom will be built on the main floor.
We are adding a year-round, family-friendly splash pad to promote active play, recreation and community connection for all ages.
The fitness centre will receive significant upgrades including new equipment, updated flooring and an improved layout.
As part of our committment to universal design, the gendered steam rooms will be replaced by a single steam room that can be accessed from pool deck, or through the universal changerooms. The hot tub will remain in its current location and will undergo minor work to increase safety and visibility.
Yes! The Heart of the City Campaign will significantly expand infant and preschool spaces in Downtown Winnipeg. These additional spaces will give more families access to the high-quality care that helps children grow while making Downtown Winnipeg a more family-friendly place to live and work.
We will share updates through:
- In-facility signage and wayfinding
- Member information sessions
- QR codes linking to construction updates and FAQs
- Ongoing communications as milestones are reached via website
Member may experience:
- Temporary closures or relocated spaces
- Changes to entrances and or traffic flows
- Construction noise at times
The Downtown Y is committed to minimizing disruptions and providing advance notice whenever possible.
In The News
Celebrating $10+Million Raised for Heart of the City Campaign
YMCA-YWCA Winnipeg, alongside community and government leaders, is celebrating passing the $10 Million mark of its $18 Million Heart of the City Capital Campaign in support of the Downtown Y Redevelop