WINNIPEG, MB – As Greyhound buses pull out of their downtown location this Saturday, August 15, 2009 for the last time, construction crews will move in to begin transforming 38,000 square feet at 491 Portage Avenue for The University of Winnipeg student and community use. The new space will be known as The University of Winnipeg ANX.
The University is redeveloping the space to accommodate a new 6,000 square foot University and community bookstore, which will become the largest in downtown Winnipeg. In addition to meeting the course requirements for students, the bookstore will have expanded trade books, magazines and general merchandise for customers from the downtown and the surrounding neighbourhood. The bookstore will also have a new state-of-the-art website for online purchasing.
The University is currently advertising for Expressions of Interest to develop a student pub, food and beverage service, medical and complimentary personal services and retail. The ANX will also include a computer store and improved access to public transit. The main floor renovations will be complete by early 2010.
New classroom space now ready in lower “Concourse” level
An additional 10 classrooms with smart technology, a computer lab, offices, student lounge and meeting rooms are now complete for student occupancy in September 2009 in the lower level at 491 Portage Avenue, known as the “Concourse”. Adding new classrooms to the University’s inventory will allow students from the English Language Program to relocate from the Massey Building in the Exchange District to the main University campus. Approximately 500 students enroll in the popular ELP annually.
Renovation and operating costs for the ANX will be covered by rental leases and savings from lease reductions as part of the University’s efforts to consolidate its facilities and programs on the main campus. The University’s operating budget will benefit from these renovations both through increased revenues from retail services and a return on rents owing to the fact The University of Winnipeg Community Renewal Corporation (UWCRC) owns 25% of the 491 Portage Avenue complex.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Diane Poulin, Communications Officer, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7135, E: d.poulin@uwinnipeg.ca
