Dakota Community Centre has opened two new accessible viewing platforms at its indoor hockey rinks. (DCC / HANDOUT)
Dakota Community Centre has unveiled two new accessible viewing platforms at the Jonathan Toews Sportsplex, improving access for spectators in the facility’s north and south indoor ice arenas.
The new platforms are designed for individuals who are unable to climb stairs, allowing them to safely and comfortably watch ice sports, tournaments, and community events alongside family and friends. Each platform includes seating for four people, as well as four designated spaces for those using wheelchairs or walkers.
“These platforms are about more than infrastructure — they’re about belonging, independence, and equal access to shared experiences,” said Cory Shangreaux, board chair of Dakota Community Centre.
Additional upgrades include new doors with automatic accessibility openers and modified flooring to ensure proper grading to the rink surface.
The project was completed in consultation with the Winnipeg Accessibility Design Standard, which outlines requirements for barrier-free indoor and outdoor environments.
The $185,000 project was funded through a combination of $100,000 from the City of Winnipeg’s Community Centre Renovation Grant Program and $85,000 contributed by Dakota Community Centre.
Dakota Community Centre has opened two new accessible viewing platforms at its indoor hockey rinks. (DCC / HANDOUT)
