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News Summary
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Minister of Indigenous Services Mandy Gull-Masty visited the Naawi-Oodena urban reserve on August 21, 2025, to announce nearly $800,000 in new federal funding for the site’s infrastructure project. The announcement, made jointly with Chief Gordon BlueSky, Chairperson of Treaty One Nations, marks a significant step forward for the development. The funds will support site servicing design, surveying, engineering, and cost estimates essential for infrastructure construction. This brings Ottawa’s total contribution for the design phase to $1 million, with about $5.5 million spent overall on planning, training, and site development. The project envisions approximately 5,000 housing units alongside commercial, educational, recreational, cultural, health, and community spaces. The first business, Oodena Gas & Convenience, opened in July 2025. The initial section of the development is expected to be completed by 2028, with the entire project spanning up to 20 years. Both Treaty One Nations and federal officials emphasize the project’s role in economic reconciliation and Indigenous self-reliance.
Source: Canada Government News
Our Commentary
Background and Context
The Naawi-Oodena urban reserve project represents a significant step in Indigenous economic development and self-governance. Located on the former Kapyong Barracks site in Winnipeg, this initiative is led by the Treaty One Nations, comprising seven First Nations in Manitoba. The project aims to transform the 160-acre site into a thriving urban community, blending residential, commercial, and cultural spaces.
Expert Analysis
The recent funding announcement underscores the federal government’s commitment to supporting Indigenous-led development projects. This investment in infrastructure planning is crucial for the long-term success of Naawi-Oodena, as it lays the groundwork for sustainable urban design and economic growth.
Key points:
- The $800,000 funding boost accelerates the project’s development phase
- Federal support totaling $1 million for design demonstrates ongoing commitment
- The project’s 20-year timeline reflects its ambitious scope and potential impact
Additional Data and Fact Reinforcement
The Naawi-Oodena project is set to make a substantial impact on Indigenous urban development:
- Approximately 5,000 housing units planned
- First business (Oodena Gas & Convenience) opened in July 2025
- Initial section completion expected by 2028
Related News
This development aligns with broader national efforts to advance reconciliation and support Indigenous economic sovereignty. It follows similar urban reserve projects across Canada, such as Muskeg Lake Cree Nation’s urban reserve in Saskatoon, which has demonstrated the potential for economic growth and community development.
Summary
The Naawi-Oodena urban reserve project, with its recent funding boost, stands as a landmark initiative in Indigenous-led urban development. Its progress reflects a growing recognition of the importance of economic reconciliation and the potential for Indigenous communities to drive significant economic growth and cultural revitalization in urban settings.
