December 15, 2009
Calgary, Alberta
The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, today announced federal funding of $5 million to enhance the redevelopment and expansion of the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede Park and strengthen its impact on the regional economy.
“The Government of Canada recognizes the vital role of the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede Park in generating economic activity, attracting visitors and businesses, and promoting Western Canada to the world,” said Minister Prentice. “Today’s investment will help position this world-class attraction as a multi-use, year-round destination that contributes to the economic development of Calgary and southern Alberta.”
Funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada will support the development of a new building that will house the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede Park’s year-round operations and administration activities. The investment will also enable the related demolition of two existing buildings in order to provide space for developing a western cultural interpretive centre and relocating the Park’s traditional Indian village.
“The proposed riverbank and park project will be the centerpiece of the Stampede Park as a gathering place for the community,” said Dr. David Chalack, president and chairman of the board for the Calgary Stampede. “This beautiful park will be enjoyed by Calgarians and visitors throughout the year, creating a unique inner city sanctuary.”
This project is a key component of the broader Western Legacy Project, which represents the second phase of a long-term strategy to attract visitors and businesses to the Park for year-round activities such as festivals, trade shows and conferences, shopping, dining and entertainment. The initiative is expected to support the region’s economy by showcasing Alberta’s agricultural industry, promoting province-wide and First Nations tourism, creating new employment opportunities and generating increased economic activity.
The Calgary Exhibition and Stampede is a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization dedicated to preserving and promoting western heritage and values. The organization contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through its world-renowned 10-day Stampede, a variety of venues and facilities, special events, and several youth and agriculture programs.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and represents the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.
For additional information, contact:
Donna Kinley
Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Phone: (780) 495-6892
Cell: (780) 991-7432
Doug Fraser
Media Relations Manager
Calgary Stampede
Phone: (403) 261-0242
Cell: (403) 585-3376
http://www.calgarystampede.com/
WD Toll-Free Number:1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1 877 303-3388
Website: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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