Introduction: The Importance of the Portage and Main Concourse
The underground concourse beneath Portage and Main in Winnipeg, Canada, is a vital part of the city’s infrastructure. Providing a climate-controlled pedestrian passage that connects several key buildings in the downtown area, it plays a crucial role in the daily lives of workers, shoppers, and visitors. However, the city’s recent proposal to close this concourse has sparked significant controversy. The Building Owners & Managers Association (BOMA) of Manitoba has voiced strong concerns about this potential decision, urging the city to reconsider its plans.
In this article, we explore the critical issues surrounding the proposal to close the concourse, weighing the financial, economic, and community impacts. We will also delve into the benefits of the concourse, the potential drawbacks of its closure, and the broader implications for Winnipeg’s downtown revitalization efforts.
The Controversy: City Council’s Motion to Close the Concourse
In March 2024, Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham introduced a motion calling for the re-opening of Portage and Main to pedestrian traffic, proposing the decommissioning of the underground concourse. According to the Mayor, maintaining the concourse is a costly endeavor, with the city losing millions annually on upkeep. The city’s cost estimate for repairing the concourse’s membrane stands at $73 million, a sum that has raised concerns about the feasibility and priority of this investment.
Gillingham also suggested that decommissioning the concourse could cost between $20 million and $50 million, presenting the closure as a more cost-effective option for the city. However, these figures have been challenged by stakeholders like the Building Owners & Managers Association, who argue that the numbers are misleading and that the city has not fully considered the broader consequences of closing the concourse.
The City’s Financial Argument: A Closer Look at the Numbers
One of the key points raised by critics is the financial justification for closing the concourse. The $73 million estimate includes not only the cost of repairing the concourse’s membrane but also a significant portion of the funds allocated for the rebuild of the intersection. According to BOMA, approximately $44 million of this total is earmarked for work that would need to happen regardless of whether the concourse is closed. This raises questions about the accuracy and fairness of the city’s financial estimates.
Furthermore, BOMA has highlighted that the cost of repairing the membrane itself is approximately $29 million, a figure that is far less than the full $73 million estimate. The association argues that the city’s figures are inflated and fail to provide a complete picture of the costs involved. In their view, closing the concourse would not save the city the projected $73 million, as much of the associated cost would be incurred regardless of the concourse’s future.
The Benefits of the Underground Concourse
While the financial argument is a significant part of the debate, it is important to consider the broader benefits that the underground concourse provides to Winnipeg. The concourse serves as a key link between four major downtown buildings, offering a climate-controlled environment that allows people to move between buildings without having to deal with harsh winter conditions. This is particularly important in a city like Winnipeg, where winter temperatures can drop to extreme lows.
Economic Impact: Property Taxes and Employment
The concourse-connected buildings are not just important for pedestrian movement; they also play a critical role in the city’s economy. According to BOMA, these buildings generate approximately $12 million in property taxes annually and provide workspaces for more than 6,000 downtown employees. The closure of the concourse could have far-reaching effects on these businesses, potentially making the area less attractive to tenants and reducing the overall economic activity in the downtown core.
Impact on Downtown Vibrancy and Sustainability
The underground concourse is an integral part of Winnipeg’s downtown infrastructure, and its closure could have significant implications for the vibrancy and sustainability of the area. The concourse provides a direct connection between businesses, shopping centers, and transportation hubs, helping to maintain foot traffic and business activity throughout the year. The loss of this vital passage could result in decreased accessibility, reducing the attractiveness of the downtown area for both businesses and residents.
Potential Consequences of Closing the Concourse
While the financial and operational arguments for closing the concourse are important, it is equally crucial to consider the potential consequences for the community. Closing the concourse would not only disrupt daily commuters but could also negatively impact the broader downtown area.
Disruption of Pedestrian Flow
The underground concourse has long been a critical passage for pedestrians, allowing people to move freely between buildings without facing the challenges of the city’s often unpredictable weather. Closing the concourse could lead to significant disruptions in pedestrian traffic, forcing people to navigate the busy streets above ground, where they would be exposed to the elements. This could lead to congestion, longer travel times, and a less enjoyable experience for those commuting through the downtown core.
Reduced Accessibility for People with Disabilities
The concourse is also an essential feature for individuals with mobility challenges. With its climate-controlled environment and accessible pathways, it offers an easy and safe route for people with disabilities to navigate the downtown area. Closing the concourse could create additional barriers for this vulnerable population, limiting their ability to access essential services and businesses.
Negative Impact on Local Businesses
As mentioned earlier, the underground concourse connects several important buildings, which house businesses, offices, and retail stores. The removal of this connection could result in fewer customers visiting these establishments, especially during the winter months when the weather is less hospitable. Local businesses may see a decline in foot traffic, leading to reduced sales and potentially fewer jobs in the area.
A Balanced Approach: Finding a Solution
While the financial and operational challenges of maintaining the concourse are clear, closing it outright may not be the best solution. Instead, the city could explore alternative strategies that would allow the concourse to remain operational while addressing the concerns raised by critics.
Repair and Modernization of the Concourse
Rather than closing the concourse entirely, the city could consider repairing and modernizing the existing structure. By focusing on essential repairs to the membrane and updating the infrastructure, the concourse could continue to serve as a vital connection point between buildings while reducing maintenance costs. This approach would allow the city to preserve the benefits of the concourse without incurring the full cost of a complete decommissioning.
Investment in Sustainable Downtown Development
In addition to addressing the concourse issue, the city should invest in broader downtown development strategies that promote sustainability and vibrancy. This could include improving public transportation options, creating pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, and encouraging mixed-use development that integrates residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. By taking a holistic approach to downtown revitalization, the city can ensure that both the concourse and the surrounding area continue to thrive.
Conclusion:
The decision to close the underground concourse beneath Portage and Main is a complex one, with significant implications for Winnipeg’s downtown economy, accessibility, and overall livability. While the financial challenges of maintaining the concourse are undeniable, the broader benefits it provides—such as climate-controlled access, economic activity, and connectivity between key buildings—cannot be overlooked.
Rather than rushing into a decision to close the concourse, the city should carefully consider all of the potential consequences and explore alternative solutions that balance financial concerns with the need to maintain a vibrant, accessible downtown. Through a thoughtful and strategic approach, Winnipeg can ensure that its downtown area remains a thriving, sustainable hub for years to come.