Healthcare Centre of Excellence on schedule as part of Portage Place redevelopment

Pihtikwè Skatepark relocation facilitates next phase of major construction activity on multi-family housing tower

Construction and demolition activities are on schedule for the 300,000-square-foot, 12-storey Healthcare Centre of Excellence (HCCE), as part of True North Real Estate Development’s (TNRED) redevelopment of Portage Place.

“We would like to acknowledge, congratulate and thank the construction and demolition teams at PCL Construction and Rakowski Cartage & Wreckage for their incredible work, planning and safe removal of structural elements of the former atrium. It’s amazing to see a fresh view of our downtown taking shape, allowing sightlines from Central Park south toward the RBC Convention Centre and setting the stage for vehicular and pedestrian access created by the redevelopment,” said Gavin Johnstone, Chief Operating Officer with TNRED.
Development of the health tower is the first phase of construction/demolition activity for the site which will also include multi-family housing complemented by neighbourhood services, retail, and public and green spaces.

Redevelopment milestones anticipated this year include:

• HCCE deconstruction work to be completed by spring 2026
• Tower crane for new structure work expected on site in spring 2026
• Construction phase of HCCE to begin between late Q1 and early Q2
• Consultation and design for project’s centre block ongoing
• Preparation for construction of multi-family housing project (TN-SCO 92 Inc.) slated to begin Q1, 2026

PCL has diverted more than 75 percent of materials removed from the site from landfills to appropriate recycling streams.

Pihtikwè Skatepark temporary relocation

True North Real Estate Development, in partnership with the Province of Manitoba and Access Credit Union, have facilitated the temporary relocation of the Pihtikwè Skatepark from the west end of Portage Place to 323 Portage Avenue. Relocation of the skatepark is necessary to progress work on the TN-SCO 92 Inc. residential tower which will be built on the west pad of the Portage Place property.

“By providing temporary space for Pihtikwè, we’re helping ensure skaters of all ages have a safe, inclusive place to ride year-round. This partnership reflects what’s possible when community organizations come together with a shared purpose,” said Myrna Wiebe, President and CEO of Access Credit Union.

“The temporary relocation of the Pihtikwè Skatepark ensures that young people, families, and dedicated skaters continue to have a safe, vibrant space to gather and stay active throughout the year. Skateparks are more than recreational amenities, they are cultural hubs that foster creativity, confidence, and community connection,” said Nellie Kennedy, Minister for Sport, Culture, Heritage Tourism. “Our government is proud of the partnership with True North Real Estate Development and Access Credit Union, and we are grateful that this important space will remain accessible while redevelopment moves forward.”

The new location requires installation of ramps and other infrastructure, but it is anticipated that the facility will be ready to welcome skaters by the end of March.
The centre block of the mall remains open, maintaining services and amenities for the community throughout construction. The latest development information including mall access info and tenants is available at portageplace.ca.