Go to the Waterfront

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As part of the Go to the Waterfront vision for our riverfronts, the City of Winnipeg asked The Forks to lead consultations focused on the future uses of the Alexander Dock site. The Forks has long been a leader in creating exciting and well used public spaces along the waterfront on the Assiniboine and Red Rivers.

About

Victoria Park, where the dock was eventually built, was an important gathering place in the 1919 General Strike. The Alexander Dock was built in 1929 and was an important shipping and transportation hub for the City. Its location, on the bank of the Red River, was close to the heart of trade in the Exchange District. As trade routes and technology evolved the Dock became focused on recreational activities.

Over the ensuing years, the Dock has been repaired extensively and often. A few years ago an ice storm damaged the structure beyond repair and made it unsound. As such, the public can no longer access the Dock.

This City-owned property is a portion of the North Winnipeg Parkway, that extends from The Forks to Kildonan Park along the west bank of the Red River.

Current Site Considerations

The Alexander Dock site is less than an acre in total. The current dock spans approximately 406 feet (124 m) along the river with 44 feet (13.5m) width from the bank. It is within the flood plain and there is an aqueduct and a hydro line south of the current dock. These considerations must be taken into account for any future uses.

The site is located in the Riverbank Sector. This city defined sector is intended primarily for the use and enjoyment of the public, ensuring that views and access to and from the rivers are enhanced.

In 2014, a temporary memorial for Tina Fontaine was placed on the Dock. The City recognizes the value and importance of maintaining a location for the memorial on the site within any new development.

Dock site, fall 2016

For additional information, please see the City's supporting downtown and riverbank planning documents: