Benchmark is an international design challenge which will culminate in permanent installations along Winnipeg and Manitoba’s trail systems. Storefront Manitoba and the Winnipeg Trails Association invite individuals and groups from around the world to submit an iconic design that will enhance the experience and accessibility of the trails to a diversity of users. We are looking for an intervention that has the power to bring people together, a place to rest, take a break, people watch, lean, ponder one’s surroundings, and even create new activities for the diverse users of our trails.

This is the fourth year of the competition and will be the first year that one of the competition sites will be in downtown Winnipeg and outside of the City of Winnipeg.

Placemaking is an important aspect of transportation, recreation and city building. A design competition to spur creative placemaking ideas is an opportunity to permanently and continually raise awareness of the beauty of Winnipeg’s downtown and the Province of Manitoba while providing a practical benefit to present and future users.

Benchmark 2020 is supported by the City of Winnipeg, Shape Industries, Trans Canada Trail Foundation and Trails Manitoba.