This article proposes nine innovative ideas for the new provincial government of Manitoba to consider in order to make Winnipeg a more livable and prosperous city. The ideas range from addressing the housing crisis to improving public transportation and combating climate change.
Firstly, the government should focus on increasing housing supply. This can be achieved by collaborating with stakeholders and leveraging funding programs like the federal Housing Accelerator Fund. The government should provide more funding to not-for-profit developers for affordable housing construction and incentivize private developers to increase market housing supply. Additionally, eliminating PST on new rental construction would encourage new housing development.
Secondly, the government needs to expand social housing supply to address homelessness, housing need, poverty, and addictions. This can be done by increasing the supply of publicly owned, not-for-profit, and Indigenous-led social and supportive housing, as well as renovating existing buildings. Retaining ownership of current public housing assets is also important.
Thirdly, the government should restore funding for Winnipeg Transit operations to improve social equity and quality of life. Public transit is essential for providing affordable access to employment, education, and recreation. Restoring the 50/50 transit funding agreement with the City and increasing operations funding would allow for the implementation of the new Primary Transit Network plan.
In addition, the government should expedite the construction of rapid transit. Winnipeg is the only one of the country’s largest cities without light rail transit. Partnering with the federal government to reduce the timeline and realize the benefits of rapid transit would improve the city’s livability and competitiveness.
The government should also consider selling provincially owned downtown surface parking lots. These properties can be repurposed for affordable housing and mixed-use developments, bringing economic activity and vibrancy to the city’s core. Another option is to tax downtown surface parking lots at a higher rate to encourage property owners to pursue more lucrative redevelopment opportunities.
Planting trees is another important strategy for combating climate change and building resiliency. Unfortunately, Winnipeg’s tree canopy is being damaged by invasive insects. Provincial funding could help implement the city’s Urban Forest Strategy and accelerate the replanting of lost trees.
Studying rail relocation is a long-term idea that could transform how the city grows. It could identify opportunities for infill development, greenspace, active transportation, and recreation. The government should consider resurrecting a task force to comprehensively examine the challenges and benefits of relocating rail yards or lines.
Finally, the government should explore the possibility of regulating river levels in the city using the floodway. Consistent river levels would attract development, increase land values, and reduce the strain on riverbank stabilization and storm-sewer systems.
By implementing these nine ideas, the new provincial government has the opportunity to make Winnipeg a more livable and prosperous city for its residents.
Sources: Winnipeg Free Press