In a city where temperatures and ice-covered concrete prevent outdoor skateboarding for at least one-third of the year, having access to a safer and inclusive indoor space is essential for the city’s vibrant skateboarding community. In the absence of a facility of this kind within the city, Manitoba Skateboarding Coalition rallied the community together to respond to this need.

On June 21 The Manitoba Skateboarding Coalition is thrilled to announce the opening of Pitikwé Skatepark, a do-it-yourself, community-driven, pilot project inside Portage Place. Pitikwé, pronounced “pee-tih-kway”, is a Cree word meaning “Come in” - a way of welcoming any visitors into your home when you hear a knock at the door. The name reflects what we are trying to accomplish in the new space.

This park would not have come to life without the help of our community and partners. Spence Neighborhood Association is our charitable partner and we look forward to partnering with them on efforts to serve the youth of their neighbourhood. Forks North Portage Partnership has been generous with funding that will go towards creating this space and accessible programming for the youth in the Central Park Neighbourhood.

Pitikwé Skatepark encourages skateboarders, scooters, roller skaters, and BMX riders of all ages and skill levels to get involved in the space. Through community collaboration, we strive to address inequity in both sports and society, enrich downtown Winnipeg with life-giving programming, community-building events, a safe space for recreation and empower individuals of diverse backgrounds. We will be hosting open houses and drop-in sessions until the grand opening this fall, with full hours and programming announced through our website and social media.

From this summer onward until the end of winter, Pitikwé Skatepark will be treated as a pilot project, taking this opportunity to learn from and collaborate with the community. With the future transformation and redevelopment of Portage Place, the hope is that Pitikwé Skatepark will remain in the community.

With the vision of providing inclusive community spaces, there has never been a better time to support our efforts in developing Pitikwé Skatepark. This space will not only serve skateboarders but also function as a future hub for youth programming and community events, fostering connections among people from diverse backgrounds and providing a safer space for socializing, exercising, and skill development.

Pitikwé Skatepark Mission and Vision Statement

Purpose

Inspiring young people to embrace their unique identities.

Mission

Empower marginalized youth through physical activity by fostering a safer, supportive, recreational environment.

Vision

To be a vibrant indoor recreational space that serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for its community.

Core Values

Inclusion, Caring, Community, Evidence.