The Government of Canada Invests in Riding Mountain National Park
News Release
Federal infrastructure funding will update Visitor Centre and restore heritage buildings
May 16, 2017 Wasagaming, Manitoba Parks Canada Agency
Canada’s national parks and historic sites belong to all Canadians. They represent the very best that Canada has to offer and tell the stories of who we are, including the history, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government invites all Canadians to experience the outdoors and learn more about our history.
The Government of Canada is investing close to $6 million in federal infrastructure funding for Riding Mountain National Park. The announcement was made today by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna and the Minister of Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre, Jim Carr.
The funding will support infrastructure projects such as the restoration of at least a dozen iconic heritage buildings, including the East Gate National Historic Site, the Bandstand on the shores of Clear Lake and Grey Owl’s Cabin. In addition, the exhibits, lobby and theatre of the Visitor’s Centre will be completely renewed. These improvements will ensure that more Canadians, including youth and newcomers, can learn about our environment and cultural heritage, while experiencing the natural wonder of Riding Mountain.
Investments in visitor infrastructure – such as trails, visitor centres and campgrounds, as well as highways, parkways and bridges – will ensure the quality and reliability of visitor facilities and continue to allow Canadians to connect with nature. These infrastructure investments are vital to creating middle class jobs and sustained economic growth. Additionally, Parks Canada’s destinations form important cornerstones for the tourism industry that is such an important part of our economy and employs so many across the country.
The Government is also very pleased to offer free admission for all visitors to national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas in 2017. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government of Canada is helping create opportunities for Canadians across Canada to participate in a year-long celebration and help shape the best that Canada can be in the future.
Quotes
“As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government of Canada is proud to invest in the protection and conservation of our national parks and historic sites. Through infrastructure investments at Parks Canada places, we are supporting local economies and contributing to growth in the tourism sector, while ensuring high-quality and meaningful visitor experiences for years to come. I encourage Canadians to visit our national treasures, like Riding Mountain National Park, as part of their Canada 150 celebrations.”
The Honourable Catherine McKenna
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
“Canada’s national parks and national historic sites enable Canadians to experience their rich history and heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150. Our government is committed to preserving and protecting our national parks and this investment is further confirmation of that. This funding will go a long way to ensuring that all Canadians can experience Riding Mountain National Park to its fullest. ”
The Honourable Jim Carr,
Minister of Natural Resources and Member
of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre
Quick Facts
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With 3,000 square kilometres of protected land, Riding Mountain National Park is Manitoba’s oldest national park. Sitting atop the Manitoba Escarpment, the forested parkland stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding prairie farmland. Visitors can explore Grey Owl’s historic cabin and see the enduring landmark of the East Gate or hike through 400 km of trails during their visit.
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This spring, phase two of Highway 10 rehabilitation and paving work will be completed and phase three will be implemented throughout July and August. As the main roadway through the park, this infrastructure project will ensure a safe and reliable corridor for visitors to Riding Mountain National Park.
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Parks Canada is investing an unprecedented $3 billion dollars over five years to support infrastructure work to heritage, tourism, waterway and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas across Canada. This investment will ensure these cherished places are protected and secured for the future.
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Contacts
Marie-Pascale Desrosiers
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
613-462-5473
marie-pascale.desrosiers@canada.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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