City receives grant to fund museum renovation

October 7, 2009

(Red Deer, Alberta) – Approximately half of the money needed for renovation of the Red Deer & District Museum will come from the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund thanks to a $1.4 million grant from Canadian Heritage.

“This grant covers up to 50 per cent of the total renovation,” said Lorna Johnson, Executive Director of the Red Deer and District Museum. “It means an enhanced cultural experience for artists and visitors alike with the opportunity to create a more versatile space that meets the needs of our growing community.”

Red Deer MP Earl Dreeshen commented “This Federal grant will benefit our City and our cultural community for years to come. Renovating the Museum is another demonstration of our Government’s commitment to preserving and promoting our heritage and to stimulate our economy.”

The Canada Cultural Spaces fund aims to improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and innovation. It supports the improvement, renovation and construction of arts and heritage facilities, and the acquisition of specialized equipment as well as conducting feasibility studies.

Museum renovations include renovation of the gallery spaces and reception area. It includes enhanced lighting systems and galleries that offer expanded exhibit and program opportunities. Moveable walls will be installed to allow for hosting of small and large exhibitions, and renovations to the discovery room will enhance the kinds of hands-on experience offered to visitors.

“The building has been well-used over the past thirty years with very few upgrades to the facility. These changes will make the space more functional, inviting and sustainable,” said Kristina Oberg, City of Red Deer Culture Superintendent.

With the renovation already underway, The Red Deer and District Museum remains open at Parkland Mall (67 Street and Gaetz Avenue). The renovation project is expected to wrap up by December 2010.

For more information about the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund visit www.pch.gc.ca. For more information about the Red Deer & District Museum visit www.reddeermuseum.com.

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For more information contact:

Kristina Öberg
Culture Superintendent
The City of Red Deer
403- 309-2637

Earl Dreeshen, MP
Red Deer
403-341-7426