Province moves tenants into downtown Winnipeg building converted into transitional housing

The Manitoba government bought the former Booth University College and is investing $24.4 million to convert it into transitional housing for 118 people, with about 50 residents already moved in as renovations proceed.

The Manitoba government purchased the former Booth University College at 447 Webb Place and is converting the building into transitional housing. The plan includes $24.4 million in renovations to create wraparound supports and housing space for 118 people. Renovations are underway and the province has moved people in on a staggered basis. The project has gained attention because it responds to local homelessness pressures and the planned closure of a nearby emergency shelter. Key details: - The province plans to spend $24.4 million to transform the seven-storey, 87,000-square-foot building into transitional housing for 118 people. - About 50 people are already living at the site after a staggered move-in that began a few months ago. - Renovations are focused on the first four floors, with the first two expected to be ready by May and the next two by August. - The move is linked to the upcoming closure of the N'Dinawemak emergency shelter at 190 Disraeli, and some residents and staff from that shelter have moved to Webb Place. - Current occupants have been staying in the gymnasium; there are bathrooms but no shower facilities yet, so the province has partnered with a nearby YMCA for bathing access. - The building was originally constructed in 1967–68, served as Booth University College from 1988 until it was sold in 2023, and the college relocated nearby. Summary: The conversion is intended to create transitional housing and supports for people who have been unhoused, and several dozen residents are already on site as renovations continue. The first two renovated floors are expected by May and two more by August, and the province has noted privacy and community integration as considerations while coordinating moves linked to the N'Dinawemak shelter closure.