400th anniversary of Québec: Canada's new government invests
$16.4 million
Québec, Quebec, February 2, 2007 The Honourable
Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of
Canada Economic Development, today joined the Honourable
Josée Verner, Minister of International Co-operation and Minister for
La Francophonie and Official Languages, in unveiling the final plan for the
redevelopment of Québec's Pointe-à-Carcy. Set to begin in Spring 2007, this
work is one of the projects being carried out to mark the 400th anniversary
of Québec's founding in 2008. The $16.4 million investment by Canada's new
government will be used to redesign the site in such a way as to provide
citizens and visitors with a new vista on the river.
The Pointe-à-Carcy redevelopment plan is aimed at equipping the site with
top-notch recreational and tourism facilities, while showcasing the area's rich
history. The project will involve upgrading the Agora, which will be expanded to
accommodate 3,500 visitors, building a new park and walkway along the
riverbank, and refurbishing the Customs Building to highlight its distinct
architectural and symbolic value.
"In unveiling this final redevelopment plan for Pointe-à-Carcy, Canada's new
government is embarking on the third and final phase of the legacy it intends to
leave to the population of Québec in commemoration of the city's
400th anniversary," explained
Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn. By 2008, Canada's new government will
have invested a total of $110 million in the area, $45.1 million of it
for the development of three river access sites. Work was launched on the two
other sites, Bassin Brown and Baie de Beauport, on
September 8, 2006, and October 13, 2006, respectively.
The Pointe-à-Carcy facilities will allow the population to enjoy the full
benefit of the site's riverside location. "This project will give the people of
Québec and all Canadians access to a lively site within a setting that focuses
not only on the area's maritime life, but also on its rich and vibrant heritage.
Sure to be valued for the many animation activities it will offer, the site
promises to become a major tourism and recreation draw for the
400th anniversary celebrations and for a great many years to
come," Minister Blackburn added.
"I am delighted that we are announcing the upcoming launch of construction
work on Pointe-à-Carcy. The City of Québec, a world heritage site,
possesses great richness not only as an historical city, but also as a maritime
city. The commemoration of its 400th birthday promises to be a unique
event, given that in 2008 we will be celebrating the founding of the City of
Québec as well as the founding of the Canadian State. Canada's new government is
proud to play a part in its success," concluded Minister Josée Verner.
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Sources:
Michel RochonCommunicationsCanada Economic DevelopmentTel.:
418-648-4679E-mail: michel.rochon@dec-ced.gc.ca
Roxane MarchandPress SecretaryOffice of the Honourable Jean-Pierre
BlackburnCanada Economic DevelopmentTel.: 819-953-5646Cell.:
613-816-5094E-mail: roxane.marchand@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
