“We are creating a place that will serve our people for generations, while building opportunities that benefit the wider community.”
~Grand Chief Jerry Daniels
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 21, 2026
ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is marking another milestone in the transformation of the former Hudson’s Bay Company building as the tower crane at Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn has completed the work it was required to perform.
Work to dismantle the crane started on October 15, 2026, and was completed yesterday on October 20, 2026. The previously closed north bound lane on Memorial Boulevard is now open.
The crane’s removal marks the completion of its role in construction and reflects the progress being made to bring new life to this landmark building in downtown Winnipeg. Construction will continue as work moves forward on the project.
“Every milestone at Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn brings us closer to realizing our vision for a place where our citizens can live, work, access services, and celebrate our cultures,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “The tower crane has served its purpose, and its removal is a visible sign of the work accomplished. We are proud of the workers and partners helping us to build a stronger future for our Nations and contribute to the renewal of downtown Winnipeg.”
Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn, meaning “it is visible,” is a First Nations-led redevelopment that will bring housing, cultural space, and economic opportunities together under one roof. Our Nations are helping to revitalize downtown Winnipeg by creating homes, supporting employment, and bringing people and opportunity back to the heart of the city.
The project represents a powerful transformation of a building deeply connected to Canada’s colonial history into a place shaped by First Nations leadership, priorities, and aspirations. November 18, 2026, will mark 100 years since this significant building was officially opened.
“The progress at this site reflects the strength and determination of our Nations,” added Grand Chief Daniels. “We are creating a place that will serve our people for generations, while building opportunities that benefit the wider community.”
SCO looks forward to sharing further construction milestones as work advances at Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn.
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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 33 First Nations and more than 92,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.
For media inquiries:
Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca