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.