Winnipeg will be pursuing a chance to host the 2017 Canada Summer Games, after $3 million in capital funding was put in place.
The event could mean long-term upgrades for some public recreation facilities.
The mayor's executive policy committee approved the money for the bid on the Games, which take place in April.
Mayor Sam Katz said that this is a partnership between the city and provincial and federal government, who have promised to provide a similar amount.
Winnipeg will be pursuing a chance to host the 2017 Canada Summer Games, after $3 million in capital funding was put in place.
"(It) can be used to upgrade our existing facilities, which I think there is a need everywhere you look," said Katz.
The money will help with renovations throughout the city, including enhancing the track at the University of Manitoba and upgrades at the Pan Am Pool.
"I would like to see the locker rooms improved, there's a huge difference between this one and the other pool I go to," said Ruth Rachlis, one Pan Am visitor.
The two-week event could potentially generate over $130 million in economic activity for Winnipeg.
The Summer Games are expected to bring in 20,000 out-of-province visitors and thousands of athletes, coaches and officials. The event is also significant in that it takes place during Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations, and will mark the 50th anniversary of the Games.
Hubert Mesman, co-chair of the Canada Summer Games bid committee, said, "We believe this event will be a cornerstone to celebrate Canada as a country, and it puts the focus on Winnipeg."
The summer season is usually slower for the hotel industry with less tourism, so the event would be a huge boon. Jim Baker of the Manitoba Hotels Association is happy that the event is staying in Winnipeg. He said, “Most of that tourism is highway traffic and going to the different sites around the Province, so I think it's an ideal time to host an event like that."
Winnipeg is the likely destination for the Games according to the bid committee, because Brandon failed in a previous bid.
"The volunteers that we have will do a tremendous job. While it's not a done deal, we're pretty confident,” said Mesman.
Winnipeg's bid has to be submitted by April 6th, and we will know by the end of that month whether or not the event is coming here for 2017.
Organizers say it will cost $26 million to run the Games. That cost will be covered by Ottawa and the province, plus corporate donations and ticket sales.
- with a report by CTV's Jeff Keele
