EllisDon has been selected to build SkyCity Centre Winnipeg, which will soon become Manitoba’s tallest skyscraper.

Fortress Real Developments awarded the contract for the iconic 45-storey, mixed-use condo, apartment and office tower in downtown Winnipeg, that will feature 30,000 square feet of amenities. Construction is expected to start in 2017.

“EllisDon was at the top of our list knowing their capacity, expertise and track record,” said Vince Petrozza, chief operating officer of Fortress, “We have worked with them in other markets and believe they are the right team to bring this iconic tower to life.”

SkyCity Winnipeg, which is now 50 per cent sold, launched sales to the public in September 2015, in a $1 million presentation centre that featured a fully-furnished model suite, high quality digital displays and an eight-inch-tall scale model. Purchasers included first-time buyers, empty-nesters, millennial couples and investors.

“Fortress and Kirkor Architects have designed a striking tower, and we are excited to bring our vast experience to this signature building in downtown Winnipeg,” said Jamie Whaley, vice-president at EllisDon.

Over the last 65 years, Ellis Don has built prominent developments in four continents including the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Rogers Centre in Toronto, and Edmonton International Airport office tower and Eight Avenue Place in Calgary. In Manitoba, EllisDon’s portfolio includes the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, the Health Sciences Centre – New Women’s Hospital, the Selkirk Regional Health Centre and the Data Center construction.