Calgary, Alberta, October 31, 2013 – Joan Crockatt, Member of Parliament for Calgary–Centre, joined Verlyn Olson, Alberta's Minster of Agriculture and Rural Development, Bob Thompson, Calgary Stampede president and chairman of the board, and Vern Kimball, Calgary Stampede CEO today to celebrate the official completion of a new two-lane tunnel and a reconfigured track at the iconic Stampede Park. The completion of these significant agricultural infrastructure projects has also created much needed additional public space required to support Stampede agricultural programming and services while providing improved access, safety and support space for the future Agrium Western Event Centre.
The new two-lane tunnel separates people from vehicles and livestock, reduces vehicle traffic on the track, brings all livestock safely to the infield, and supports two-way vehicle traffic. Ultimately, the new tunnel will provide exhibitors and competitors with better access to the Agrium Western Event Centre, which is being built on the south side of the Agriculture Building.
"Our Government is proud to continue to invest in the Calgary Stampede Park, a renowned destination that attracts tourists from across the country and around the world,"
said MP Crockatt, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec. "People, livestock, and equipment can now move more safely and efficiently to and from the arena infield thanks to these important new additions. This tunnel played a vital role in organizers' ability to successfully hold last summer's Stampede during such challenging circumstances."
"Part of building Alberta is building strong connections between Albertans,"
said Minister Olson. "The Calgary Stampede brings a little bit of the country to the city, and while it's great fun, it is also a great opportunity for Albertans to connect with their rural roots and gain a greater appreciation for our province's agriculture industry. With this new expansion, the Stampede will be helping to make the bonds between rural and urban Alberta even stronger."
The Stampede showcases Alberta's agriculture expertise to the world, with thousands of visitors from more than 60 countries coming to the Stampede every year to learn about agriculture. The completion of new two-lane tunnel and a reconfigured racetrack at the iconic Stampede Park is an essential part of the Stampede vision of a year-round gathering place for agriculture, commerce, education and entertainment.
"The Agriculture Discovery Zone will provide guests with hands-on educational programming and experiences,"
said CEO Kimball. "The new infield tunnel is a strategic part of making it all come together by creating much needed additional public space to showcase agriculture in an interactive and exciting environment."
The Government of Canada is contributing up to $25 million towards the revitalization of Stampede Park from the Major Infrastructure Component of the Building Canada Fund. Of the federal commitment, approximately $3.4 million was allocated to the construction of the new tunnel and reconfigured track. The Government of Alberta has also provided $25 million to the Calgary Stampede agricultural expansion project, which includes the new Agrium Western Event Centre, while the Calgary Stampede will be responsible for all remaining costs. The total eligible project costs are estimated at $55.3 million.
Canada's Economic Action Plan 2013 is delivering $70 billion for public infrastructure, including a $53 billion New Building Canada Plan to build roads, bridges, subways, commuter rail, and other public infrastructure in cooperation with provinces, territories, and municipalities. Thanks to the Government of Canada's leadership and strong economic and financial fundamentals, the Canadian economy has recovered from the global recession better than most other industrialized countries. Canada's economy has created over 1 million net new jobs since July 2009. The New Building Canada Plan, combined with other federal infrastructure investments, will support Canada's infrastructure advantage, a key enabler of economic growth and job creation.
About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned 10-day Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We're Greatest Together; we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and promotes western heritage and values. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.
For additional information about federal investments in infrastructure visit Infrastructure Canada or follow us on Twitter @INFC_eng.
For further information about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Contacts:
Marie-Josée Paquette (Disponible en français)
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and
Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
613-943-1838
Julie Crilly
Press Secretary
Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development
780-782-5866
Jennifer Booth
Publicity Manager Calgary Stampede
403-261-0327
jbooth@calgarystampede.com
Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251 or toll-free 1-877-250-7154
