Winnipeg's St. Vital Park is getting a $2-million makeover this year.

The city announced Tuesday it will spend $1 million for a new duck pond pavilion, $300,000 to replace the summer washroom facility and $750,000 to replace the park’s boat launch, which will include riverbank stabilization, an improved dock, and better lighting.

A ‘wing’ concept was chosen as the winning design for the new pavilion following a public open house in May 2012. It features a roof form suggestive of a bird’s wing in flight.

The roof provides two distinct, covered picnic zones, each with a unique view of the pond, according to a city news release.

The interior space contains built-in seating flanked by a fireplace and washroom area.

“We want the facilities in our regional parks to be as welcoming and beautiful as the natural surroundings,” Mayor Sam Katz stated in the news release.

“The new duck pond pavilion will attract visitors in both summer and winter. This is just one of the significant capital improvements that will take place within our regional parks this year.”

Added St. Vital Coun. Brian Mayes: "I first came here when I was eight years old and now I am bringing my eight-year-old son here. I am pleased that we are upgrading facilities at St. Vital Park to properly reflect the value that residents continue to place upon this community green space."

Other capital projects for city parks in 2013, including some underway:

• Kildonan Park — upgrades to the Peguis Pavilion and exterior renovations to the pond and Lord Selkirk Creek.
• Whittier Park — construction of a storage building for St. Boniface baseball, Festival du Voyageur and park use.
• Kilcona and Harbourview Parks — Creation of a new strategic master plan for these parks. Public consultations will begin in the spring of 2013.
• Assiniboine Park — Journey to Churchill project.

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