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Ottawa reaffirms decision to locate new Waterton visitor centre inside town

Nov 15, 2017 | 11:06 AM

OTTAWA – Parks Canada has reaffirmed its choice of location for a new visitor centre in Waterton Lakes National Park.

In a statement, Catherine McKenna, minister responsible for Parks Canada, said the original choice, Block 39 within the townsite, is the “appropriate decision.” She says she came to this decision after reviewing the initial decision, and after consultation with stakeholders that included meetings in the townsite with Parliamentary Secretary Jonathan Wilkinson.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in these meetings for their time and effort,” McKenna said, “and for generously sharing their perspectives on this national park that so many Canadians treasure.”

Parks Canada said the decision would best serve visitors’ needs, with the least environmental impact. McKenna said the department would continue to work closely with stakeholders and partners.

The project to replace the existing visitor centre, which was located just outside the town entrance, was well underway prior to its destruction in the Kenow fire. The choice of location prompted opposition from Waterton residents and business owners concerned about traffic and congestion.