Media Release |
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For immediate release Alberta Infrastructure funds first step in redevelopment of Banff Centre Twenty million dollars in funding from Alberta Infrastructure will finance the first step in a major redevelopment and revitalization of The Banff Centre campus. Ty Lund, Minister of Infrastructure, and Dr. Lyle Oberg, Minister of Learning, made the funding announcement today at The Banff Centre. The $20 million is part of the Province’s 2004/07 Capital Plan. “We are very pleased that the Province of Alberta recognizes the vital role The Banff Centre plays in supporting creativity and innovation in Alberta and beyond,” says Philip Ponting, chair of the Centre’s Board of Governors. “The Centre’s aging infrastructure is in urgent need of renewal. This funding announcement recognizes that need, and allows us to begin a major redevelopment of our campus.” A facilities condition study completed by Alberta Infrastructure in 2001 identified that significant capital investment was required at The Banff Centre. Classroom facilities, performance spaces, administrative and accommodation buildings, and grounds were all earmarked as requiring major re-investment. The Banff Centre’s Capital Plan identifies $71.8 million in deferred maintenance, equipment, and development/redevelopment requirements. “Modern, efficient facilities are critical to The Banff Centre’s ability to provide professional development, research, and creative opportunities to Albertans and Canadians,” says Centre president Mary Hofstetter. “We are thrilled that the Province has chosen to support the Centre through this investment.” The Centre will use the Alberta Infrastructure funds to finance the redevelopment of Donald Cameron Hall. Built in stages during the 1950s and 1960s, the Hall is essential to the Centre’s educational mandate. It houses three floors of classrooms and learning spaces, administrative offices and services, and the main dining facilities. The Banff Centre provides professional development and learning opportunities for artists, the mountain community, and business and community leaders from Alberta, Canada, and around the world. Over 5,000 participants enrol in Centre programs every year. Currently, Alberta Learning provides 26 per cent of the Centre’s total annual operating revenue. — 30 — Images of the announcement are available
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