(From left) Councillor Sherri Rollins, Mayor Scott Gillingham, Minister Bernadette Smith, The Forks Board Chair Rennie Zegalski, The Forks CEO Sara Stasiuk, Elder Barb Nepinak, developer and architect Andre Silva, MP Ben Carr, Minister Glen Simard.
Ahh, the sweet, sweet sound of construction!
Railside at The Forks is officially underway. Yes, you heard that right, the innovative, mixed-use neighbourhood on everyone’s lips is actually getting started.
Yesterday, community partners gathered to cut the ribbon and celebrate the start of phase one of the project. This milestone marks a turning point for The Forks, evolving from a casual meeting place into a thriving, year-round neighbourhood and cultural hub that people can truly call home.
About Railside
Railside’s design is all about people. Think human-scale buildings, welcoming spaces, and a thoughtful mix of housing options that support inclusivity. Ten mid-rise buildings, ranging from four to six storeys, will frame sunlit courtyards and pedestrian-friendly alleyways. These are all designed to cut the wind, soak up the light, and keep those big prairie sky views front and centre.
Phase one will span across 3.5 acres and remain under construction through at least 2027, bringing roughly 350 new residential units to The Forks. Down the line, Railside will grow in three phases, with a full build-out by 2040 that could welcome up to 1,200 residents.
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“Railside will become a modern village that invites Winnipeggers to experience more of The Forks,” says Sara Stasiuk, President and CEO of The Forks. “Railside’s interconnected public spaces, courtyards, alleyways, and art installations are all designed to foster connection, exploration, and cultural expression throughout the seasons.”
Railside adds a fresh chapter to over 6,000 years of history at The Forks, strengthening the link between public heritage and urban living. By welcoming more people to live here full-time, the neighbourhood will help local businesses thrive, make the area feel even safer and more vibrant, and bring more life to the heart of downtown. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the buildings, it’s about creating a community where people want to be.
