Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, June 11, 2013 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the construction contract for a four-season multi-use shelter known as Project Agora has been awarded to K2 Design/Build.
“Project Agora is a new construction project providing school groups, residents and visitors alike a multi-use shelter in a heritage setting,” said Minister Nicholson. “Today’s investment in Project Agora reflects not only our government’s commitment to support Canadian history but also to contribute to creating jobs, economic growth and providing a high quality of life for Canadian families within our community.”
The Agora is a two-story shelter featuring a unique design including a main floor with propane-fired fireplaces; it can be completely enclosed to provide a unique setting for outdoor based events. The second floor of the Agora includes an overhead canopy to provide shade and shelter from the elements and boasts green-roof technology. Both floors are connected by a wheelchair-accessible ramp that allows a full view of the grounds.
“I welcome this infrastructure investment to enhance visitor experience in one of our national parks and I am pleased our government continues to connect Canadians to their heritage,” said Minister Kent. “By investing in Project Agora we are not only establishing an innovative community gathering place but are building on a larger vision to draw Canadians to a location where they can convene and have unique experiences in discovering Canada’s history.”
The Agora serves the special purpose of visually linking special places, peoples and history found at Niagara Historic Sites where First Nations met at the Indian Council House, and where significant battles were fought during the War of 1812. During the course of both World Wars and the Korean War these places also served many other purposes.
Parks Canada works to ensure Canada’s historic and natural heritage is protected and, through a network of 44 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four national marine conservation areas, invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery at our treasured natural and historic places. For additional information on Niagara National Historic Sites, please visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca.
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