The Park is honoured for the redevelopment of Gilmour Hill during the 22nd Edition of the Communities in Bloom Ceremonies

November 4, 2016 – Québec – The National Battlefields Commission   

Once again, The National Battlefields Commission is proud to be honoured by the Communities in Bloom program with focus on the enhancement of green spaces in communities. The Battlefields Park received a
5 Bloom – Silver rating and special mention/recognition for the redevelopment of Gilmour Hill in the Special Attractions category during the national and international awards ceremonies held in Regina on October 29.

Quick facts

• “The redevelopment of Gilmour Hill was originally undertaken to ensure safe access for automobiles year round. However, we were able to note that the success of this very complex project largely exceeded vehicular access. A second access onsite winding through steep wooded areas now offers pedestrians and cyclists a unique experience in winter and summer. Despite the complex nature of the site with its steep hills and fragile forest ecosystem, the team was able to design and complete a winding trail with grades of 10% and less, offering breathtaking glimpses of the river. There are also a number of rest areas and interpretive panels that highlight the historic and natural heritage of this exceptional site that marked the country’s history. In addition, lighting integrated beautifully into the environment, special protective measures for existing trees, the architectural vocabulary of the entrances, appropriate floral and vegetal arrangements and quality paving create an impression of project sustainability. Note that this entry was able to address all key evaluation criteria and we congratulate The National Battlefields Commission on this unqualified success,” stated volunteer judges Lucie Gagné and Gérald Lajeunesse.
• Participating communities receive information and are evaluated by a volunteer jury of trained professionals (active or retired) on the accomplishments of their entire community (municipal, private, corporate and institutional sectors, citizens) on eight key criteria: tidiness, environmental action, heritage conservation, urban forestry, landscape, turf and groundcovers, floral displays and community involvement.
• Over the years, The National Battlefields Commission has been awarded several honourable mentions in the Special Attractions and Parks and Landscaping categories: majestic trees, My Mobile Plains (application), recognition for urban forestry, showcasing history and heritage, floral arrangements… but to mention a few.
• Communities in Bloom is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community involvement and the challenge of a national program, with focus on enhancing green spaces in communities. The pride, community spirit and sense of accomplishment that participants feel are visible in Canadian communities.
• The Battlefields Park was created over one hundred years ago. It includes, among other features, the Plains of Abraham and Des Braves Park. Today, The National Battlefields Commission oversees the preservation and development of this magnificent urban park, ranked among the most prestigious in the world. Often referred to as the lungs of the city, this central rallying site attracts four million local and foreign visitors annually.
• Information:           Nathalie Allaire
                               The National Battlefields Commission
                               418 648-4801, nathalie.allaire@ccbn-nbc.gc.ca

Sonia Parrino
Communities in Bloom
514 694-8871, bloom@cib-cef.com

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Contact
Nathalie Allaire
Outreach and Media Officer, Communications Division
The National Battlefields Commission
418 648-4801, nathalie.allaire@ccbn-nbc.gc.ca