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Casino proposes murals

A walk down 47th Avenue could soon become a stroll through Red Deer’s past.

A walk down 47th Avenue could soon become a stroll through Red Deer’s past.

Jackpot Casino plans to place a half-dozen murals on its 4950 47th Ave. building, with each depicting a historical theme. The images proposed include city streetscapes from decades ago, a steam-powered train, a threshing crew and cowboys tending their livestock.

The murals would be digitally reproduced from photos that Red Deer archivist Michael Dawe helped select.

On Monday, Red Deer’s municipal planning commission considered the proposal. When Jackpot Casino received authorization in 2006 to expand and renovate its premises, the commission stipulated that details of this design feature come back to it for approval.

The commission heard that the six images would be placed onto large faux windows on the east side of the building. Casino-related signage would go on smaller panels on the same wall, as well as elsewhere on the building.

A public meeting involving Parkland Community Association and residents near the casino was held on March 24, the commission was told. The mural plan was received favourably by the approximately 25 people in attendance, and the community association sent a letter to the city expressing its support.

City manager Craig Curtis said he would like to see at least one mural placed on the building’s north face as well. It fronts onto busy Ross Street.

Jackpot Casino marketing manager Brenda Grande said this would have to be discussed with Franklin Daines, the business’s owner.

The commission voted to table the matter for up to two weeks to allow this to happen.