New picnic pavilion to be built in Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park

Residents of Prince George can soon enjoy a family picnic under a modern shelter in the heart of Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park.

The Federal government is funding $377,000 for a new pavilion as part of Canada’s 150 celebrations this summer.

.@Lynhallpg, Chief Frederick announce new features to be built at Lheidli Tenneh Park; #cdnpoli funding $377k, part of #Canada150 @mypgnow pic.twitter.com/bBwTj1QRsH

— Kyle Balzer (@KyleBalzer) February 24, 2017

Lead architect Bruce Carscadden says the design will have a modern spin, but it’ll also depict the history of the local village.

“It riffs on more historical features. The roof references across to the escarpment on the other side and it opens broadly to the centre of the park. There’s a slight curve to the plan that references the confluence of the paths in the park and I think makes reference to the rivers as well.”

Carscadden predicts shovels to hit the ground in the coming weeks, but before the project begins, his firm will conduct several meetings with the Lheidli T’enneh.

“We have put out a few ideas about where we think we can incorporate things into the structure, like into the foundational elements around the perimeter, but we’re also interested in getting more input from them as well.”

#LheidliTenneh Chief Frederick says project is good example of relationship w/@CityofPG; city to match #cdnpoli's $377k funding @mypgnow pic.twitter.com/kZQEIWELkt

— Kyle Balzer (@KyleBalzer) February 24, 2017

The City of Prince George will also be matching the Fed’s investment on the premier park.

City Councillor Susan Scott says she’s pleased this project is finally moving forward.

“We have been looking forward for several years now for the development of this site. It’s in a very inviting, welcoming space and that’s what we believe that Lheidli T’enneh Park is all about.”

She adds the innovation is yet another step towards reconciliation and a better relationship between the city and the host nation as well.

PHOTOS: #cdnpoli funding $377k for new picnic pavilion at #LheidliTenneh Park; @CityofPG will match, said to showcase village area @mypgnow pic.twitter.com/UERv8W4ufA

— Kyle Balzer (@KyleBalzer) February 24, 2017