WINNIPEG, MB – An historic River Heights house that has been owned by The University of Winnipeg for the past six decades is up for sale, effective today. In keeping with UWinnipeg’s commitment to fiscal prudence, proceeds from the sale of the home at 49 Oak Street will go towards other university capital purposes.. UWinnipeg also expects to save thousands of dollars annually in ongoing property taxes, maintenance and utility bills following the sale of the house.
Constructed in 1930, the 3,160 square foot house was purchased by UWinnipeg in 1955 for $26,500 and has since been used as the President’s quarters. It has a classic traditional center hall plan and features coved ceilings, oak floors, a mezzanine family room, sunroom and double attached garage.
“Owning a President’s house used to be a common practice across Canadian universities, which often doubled as a venue for fundraising and other events,” said Bill Balan, Vice-President (Finance & Administration, Chief Administrative Officer), UWinnipeg. “With a fully-renovated Convocation Hall and new meeting spaces newly-developed on the UWinnipeg campus, that need has diminished. In the ongoing examination of university operations, it has been determined that the house no longer serves core university needs, and as such is a disposable asset .”
Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, President and Vice-Chancellor, UWinnipeg vacated the home in fall 2013 after purchasing a private home. Realtor Chris Pennycook, with Royal Lepage Dynamic, was selected following an RFP process to represent 49 Oak Street.
Find out more about 49 Oak Street and view photos on the MLS service.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Diane Poulin, Senior Communications Specialist, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7135, E: d.poulin@uwinnipeg.ca
