Winnipeg, Manitoba, July 29, 2010 -- On behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Mr. Rod Bruinooge, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, today announced that the Government of Canada will be investing in infrastructure improvements for the Former Union Bank Building and Annex National Historic Site and the Gault Building.
“The Exchange District has retained much of its original character and provides visitors and Winnipeg residents with an exceptional heritage experience,” said Mr. Bruinooge. “Conservation work on the Former Union Bank Building and the Gault Building will contribute significantly to this strong sense of place.”
The former Union Bank Building, western Canada’s first skyscraper, served as a beacon at the entryway to Winnipeg’s financial district, an important civic and corporate symbol of the role of Winnipeg and of the Union Bank in the developing economy of the West. The Gault Building, a large masonry warehouse built in the Romanesque Revival architectural style, reflects Winnipeg’s rising economic role in the development of western Canada.
“Our Government is taking a leadership role in the protection of Canada’s heritage buildings and national historic sites,” said Minister Prentice. “Today’s announcement will both preserve this Winnipeg landmark for future generations to visit and enjoy, and provide a boost to the local economy by creating and supporting local jobs.”
The Government of Canada will be contributing up to $425,000 to preserve both interior and exterior elements of the Union Bank Building and Annex. Work will include repair of the historic doors and windows on the first three floors and renovations to the front foyer and banking hall. Stabilization and conservation work will also be undertaken on the historic Annex. Up to $32,277 will be contributed to conserve and repair the historic roof-fence sign of the Gault Building.
“Red River College appreciates the Government of Canada's support in bringing one of Winnipeg's most prominent heritage structures back to life,” said Catherine Rushton, Interim President and CEO of Red River College. “This building played a vital role in the development of the Exchange District over a century ago. With its exciting transformation into a modern centre of learning, it will become a linchpin in the continued revitalization of this dynamic neighbourhood.”
“As steward of the historic Gault building, Artspace is thrilled that the government of Canada supports the restoration of the building's iconic roof fence,” said Cecilia Araneda, President, Artspace Inc. “This roof fence has been gracing Winnipeg's skyline for over a century, and its restoration will ensure this element of the Exchange District's historic character will be preserved for generations to come.”
Parks Canada’s National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, with a budget of $20 million provided in part by Canada’s Economic Action Plan, reflects the government’s desire to support job creation by providing funding for conservation of national historic sites.
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Information:
Frédéric Baril
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
http://twitter.com/jimprentice
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-994-3023
http://twitter.com/parkscanada
