Ccyyrree, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Something Cool Is Happening on Graham Avenue This Summer
Heads up for anyone who spends time downtown—Graham Avenue is getting a bit of a glow-up this summer. Starting June 30, 2025, a few blocks (from Carlton to Garry) are going car-free and turning into a pedestrian-friendly space. It’s part of a pilot project meant to bring more life, colour, and people to the street.
Here’s what folks can expect:
- No cars allowed on that stretch, so people can walk, hang out, or just enjoy the space without traffic.
- Street murals painted by local artists through the Cool Streets Winnipeg program, backed by a grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies.
- Custom street furniture designed by a local architecture group and built by Tec-Voc High School students.
- Mid-block ramps built by MET Exchange School students for more accessibility.
- Trees, benches, and rocks added by Ron Paul Garden Centre to give a more natural vibe.
- Extras like planters, picnic tables, ping-pong tables, and more spots to sit, thanks to Downtown Winnipeg BIZ.
- Artistic lighting will be installed at night to keep things inviting.
- Space for events and festivals, including the Canadian Elite Basketball League Championship Weekend later this summer.
This is part of CentrePlan 2050, a bigger vision to reimagine downtown as a more vibrant, people-first place. It’s a test run for now, but if it goes well, it could expand.
Also worth noting:
- Buses reroute off most of Graham starting June 29 with the launch of Winnipeg’s new Primary Transit Network.
- Bike lanes going in between Garry and Main.
- Vaughan Street bus lane becoming a two-way bike lane.
- Speed limit may be reduced to 30 km/h on nearby blocks.
Graham Avenue is going through a transformation—and it might just become one of those spots people actually want to linger in, not just pass through.
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