Grand Beach Provincial Park will undergo a major makeover that will improve the popular beach destination for Manitoba families and out-of-province visitors. This announcement was made by Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie.
“Grand Beach is a natural jewel that attracts thousands of families each year,” Blaikie said. “Our investments will improve the area for cottage owners, campers and visitors, and will help Manitobans enjoy our fantastic summers.”
“The Grand Beach makeover is part of the Selinger government’s plan to invest $100 million in provincial parks over the next five years,” said Blaikie. “Manitobans are blessed with beautiful lakes, rivers and natural spaces. Our investment ensures more families than ever can enjoy Manitoba’s backyard.”
Nestled along the shores of Lake Winnipeg, Grand Beach is known as one of the world’s top freshwater beaches, Blaikie said. An estimated 400,000 people visit the provincial park every year, the equivalent of the entire city of Halifax. In the fall of 2010, a major storm destroyed the boardwalk, accessible ramp and the beach safety office. Construction is now underway to create a new and significantly improved boardwalk and, once completed, further improvements will be made in the park to enhance and invigorate Grand Beach as one of Manitoba’s top summer destinations, the minister said.
The Grand Beach project will be completed in three phases:
Phase One – boardwalk reconstruction and improvements
The boardwalk will be rebuilt, enhanced and strengthened to withstand any future severe weather. The entire boardwalk will be paved and will include circular gathering places. It will be ready mid June for this summer’s beach season with some finishing work to be completed in the fall. The approximate cost is $2.7 million.
Phase Two – boardwalk extension and park improvements
The boardwalk will be extended east where an additional plaza space will be built, offering improved beach access and gathering places. Permanent umbrella shade structures, additional seating, picnic areas and planting will provide visitors with more space to enjoy a better beach experience. Phase Two will also include better access to the beach and improvements to volleyball court surfacing and lighting.
Phase Three – park upgrades
Infrastructure throughout the park will be enhanced. This includes road repairs, campsite enhancements and waste-water treatment upgrades.
The approximate cost for all repairs and improvements in the three phases is $10.5 million.
The Manitoba Provincial Park free entry program is in effect for the third consecutive year to ensure that all families have access to the province’s natural outdoor playground, said Blaikie.
