Portage & Main officially opened to pedestrians on June 27! This marks the first time in 46 years that pedestrians are allowed to cross the intersection. The prospect of this reopening has long been a topic of debate. For nearly five decades, concrete barriers prevented Winnipegers from crossing the corners of these roads, known as the “Crossroads of Canada.”

Portage Avenue and Main Street first closed to pedestrian traffic in 1979. Many factors contributed to the closure, including efforts to improve vehicular traffic flow and provide safer, warmer pedestrian access through the development of the underground concourse. These measures were seen as necessary due to growing concerns about suburban economic development drawing people away from the city’s downtown.

The proposal to reopen Portage & Main was put forward by Mayor Scott Gillingham in response to the increasing costs associated with repairing the intersection’s underground concourse. Aimed at revitalizing downtown Winnipeg, the redesign was approved by City Council in March 2024, with construction beginning in October. However, the decision has faced some backlash, with concerns raised over pedestrian safety and potential traffic disruptions.

In its long history, Portage & Main has undergone significant changes, while standing the test of time as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Today, the sole remaining heritage building of the intersection is the 1913 Bank of Montreal Building (335 Main Street), now owned by the Manitoba Métis Federation and a municipally-designated historic site. The opening marks a momentous day in the city’s history.

Mayor Scott Gillingham marked the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning, with many gathering to celebrate the historic event. The opening of the intersection comes two days before Winnipeg officially launches its new bus network on Sunday, June 29.

Sources:

“Portage & Main Project” City of Winnipeg, winnipeg.ca, accessed 26 June 2025.

“Pedestrians to return to Portage & Main after 46 years this Friday” CHVN Radio, 24 June 2024.

“Portage and Main to reopen to pedestrians Friday after 46-year ban” Joyanne Malowanchuk, Winnipeg Sun, 24 June 2024.

“Portage and Main: The intersection that divides Winnipeg” Bartley Kives, CBC News, 27 June 2018.

“Portage and Main to reopen to pedestrians for first time in 46 years Friday” CTV News Winnipeg, CTV News, 24 June 2024.