Effective implementation strategies for a city development agency: CentreVenture & Waterfront Drive Redevelopment Initiative in Winnipeg

In 1999, CentreVenture Development Corporation, the City's arm's-length development agency, was established as the vehicle to implement the concepts of CentrePlan, a comprehensive vision intended to direct Winnipeg's downtown revitalization. The Waterfront Drive Redevelopment Initiative (WDRI) was launched by CentreVenture in 2004 and represents a significant milestone in the renaissance of downtown Winnipeg. This research explores general strategies that can enable a better implementation for a development agency. Seven strategies were identified through studying North American and European cities. In order to answer the research question "what implementation strategies CentreVenture needs for its implementation regarding the vision of 'CentrePlan.'", the key informants from CentreVenture, the government sector, downtown organizations, and the private sector, participated in the interviews. Through analyzing interview findings, a list of key issues was identified that were considered as impacting CentreVenture's operations. These key issues are the foundation to created four principal suggestions, including clarifying the mandate and authority, enhancing stakeholder participation, skills for a seasoned CEO, and understanding market dynamics. It is expected that the research will provide CentreVenture, policy makers, downtown organizations and other involved players with a better understanding regarding implementation strategies. Furthermore, these recommendations are expected to not only benefit the on-going projects in Waterfront Drive, but bring ideas on how to better implement at future sites and projects.