The Centennial Concert Hall is one of the many downtown Winnipeg arts venues to see safe-walks added next season. (SAPPHIRE / YOUTUBE)
A new safe-walk program in downtown Winnipeg will cater to those attending performing arts venues in the city’s core.
Mayor Scott Gillingham announced Monday a new wayfinder program dedicated to courtesy walks and enhanced safety patrols for the 2026-27 theatre season.
“Winnipeg’s performing arts organizations help bring our downtown to life,” said Gillingham, adding the initiative is a practical way to help people feel safe travelling to and from performances.
Starting in September 2026 and running through June 2027, a dedicated Downtown Community Safety Partnership wayfinder team will patrol around the Centennial Concert Hall and Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, including nearby parking lots. Courtesy walks to and from vehicles will be available before and after performances through the DCSP app or by approaching Wayfinders stationed outside participating venues.
The program will also provide patrols during rehearsals based on a shared calendar developed with participating arts organizations. When no performances or rehearsals are scheduled, wayfinders will continue patrolling the surrounding downtown area as operationally appropriate.
Funding for the new program is coming from the Office of the Mayor.
