QUEBEC, QUÉBEC, October 23, 2006 --
The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Michael Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, as well as the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of International Cooperation and Minister for la Francophonie and Official Languages, today announced the awarding of two contracts with a combined value of $6.55 million for the development of Espace 400e, the official site of the celebrations for the 400th anniversary of the City of Québec at Bassin Louise.
"Through these investments, Canada's new Government is meeting its commitment to make the Bassin Louise area a part of the legacy that will continue to bear witness to the historic significance of the 400th anniversary of the City of Québec long after the celebrations have ended," said Minister Ambrose.
"Through the Espace 400e project, facilities are being developed that will lend a festive air to Bassin Louise in 2008. This gathering place will be entirely dedicated to the celebrations and will be the true heart of the 400th anniversary celebrations," declared Minister Fortier.
"The 400th anniversary of Québec City will be an opportunity to celebrate the permanent establishment of the French civilization in North America. As Minister for Francophonie, I am very pleased that the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of this event through the realization of key projects like Espace 400e," stated Minister Josée Verner.
The first contract, worth $5.8 million, was awarded to Les Constructions Bé-Con Inc. for the development of the periphery of Bassin Louise. This will include refitting walkways, creating green spaces and meeting areas, installing booths, rebuilding piers, and replacing street lighting and fixtures. The second contract, worth $750,000, went to C. F. G. Construction Inc. for
Phase 1 of the Espace 400e pavilion development project.
These contracts were awarded from a total budget of $24 million allocated to Parks Canada for the development of Espace 400e as well as exhibitions on immigration and the
St. Lawrence.
Information:
Joanne Huppé
Communication Advisor
Corporate Communications Branch
Parks Canada
819-953-8699
Jean Desautels
Special Advisor
Parks Canada
418-648-4168
