Peguis First Nation looks to turn Assiniboia Downs into urban reserve

WINNIPEG — Peguis First Nation and the Manitoba Jockey Club are teaming up to turn the Assiniboia Downs into an urban reserve.

The plan is to create an entertainment hub, with hotels, restaurants, shops and possibly a casino. The new development would complement the existing race track.

On Tuesday, the plan will enter it’s first stage, which will be debated and voted on by the city’s Assiniboia Community Committee. In order for the area to be granted a reserve status, it requires full council approval.

In 2013, the First Nation and the non-profit group that owns the track, partnered to develop a plan to turn part of the site into a ‘Racing and Entertainment Centre’ destination.

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READ MORE: Race track says province blocking development deal with First Nation

The jockey club has said the development would be worth $100 million and create 1,000 jobs.

Peguis First Nation is located in Manitoba’s Interlake region, about 180 kilometres north of Winnipeg. It has about 7,000 residents.

The Assiniboia Downs, located just outside the city, was created in 1958, and is the largest horse racing complex in Manitoba. According to the city report, it draws in nearly 50,000 visitors a year.

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