In the decades following the Second World War, Winnipeg and its neighbouring municipalities experienced rapid population and industrial growth. Amidst this growth, there was a strong need to coordinate services and planning among local governments.

The Metropolitan Corporation of Greater Winnipeg (Metro) was established by the Province of Manitoba in 1960 to fill this need. Metro dealt with inter-municipal matters affecting the Greater Winnipeg area, such as regional streets, water, waste disposal, bridges, parks, transit, and zoning. The first Metro Council was elected on October 26, 1960. R.H.C. Bonnycastle, the first Chairperson of Metro Council, was appointed by the Provincial Government.

Despite successes like creating new green spaces, improving traffic flow, and river cleanup, Metro was dissolved in 1971. It was blamed for increased taxation, and was accused of being remote to citizens. However, the Metro experience softened negative attitudes towards amalgamation within and around Winnipeg and led to the creation of the Unified City of Winnipeg (Unicity) in 1972.

We invite you to discover the records of Metro through this website.

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