July 15, 2014
Province Announces Proclamation to Help Develop Park at Upper Fort Garry Site
– – –Signed Proclamation Date Commemorates Manitoba's Entrance into Confederation on July 15, 1870: Minister Mackintosh
The Upper Fort Garry Heritage Provincial Park Act is now in effect, designating the Upper Fort Garry Heritage Provincial Park in downtown Winnipeg and establishing an advisory committee on historic resources, development and programming, Conservation and Water Stewardship Minister Gord Mackintosh announced today.
“The province supports the development of the park and will continue to work closely with the Friends of Upper Fort Garry, the group leading the drive for the park’s creation,” said Minister Mackintosh. “This new act and the project couldn’t be more timely, as they coincide with TomorrowNow: Manitoba’s Green Plan, which promises to protect and preserve our resources for Manitobans today and in the future.”
To date, the province has contributed over $4 million to acquire the land and toward the total park development costs of $9 million.
Land purchased by the Friends of Upper Fort Garry, which will be part of the provincial park, was gifted to the province this year and will be managed, secured and maintained by the Friends of Upper Fort Garry and The Forks Renewal Corporation.
“This is an historic day as the proclamation ensures this heritage site will be owned by the people of Manitoba and will be a public park forever,” said Jerry Gray, chair, Friends of Upper Fort Garry. “We are grateful for the support of the Manitoba government in making this park possible. Construction is well underway and we invite everyone to attend the opening of Upper Fort Garry Heritage Provincial Park on September 27.”
More information on Upper Fort Garry Heritage Provincial Park is available at www.upperfortgarry.com
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