Demolition on Michener Centre’s North site will begin this month.
The Government of Alberta is proceeding with the demolition of the remaining Michener North buildings. This project was announced in late 2020, after reviewing the history and the sensitive ecology of the escarpment and wetlands in the area.
“The demolition of the buildings and reclamation of this provincial surplus site will put the City of Red Deer in the best position to make use of the area,” said Infrastructure Minister Prasad Panda.
“Alberta Infrastructure and the City of Red Deer have proven that we can find a solution to benefit all Albertans by working together towards a sale agreement of the Michener North lands, with the demolition and reclamation of the land being our first step.”
The Government of Alberta is working with a demolition contractor. Work is expected to continue through 2022. Project activities will involve hazardous material removal and demolition of all buildings, site structures and utilities.
“This project provides a strategic opportunity for the city to mark a significant piece of Red Deer’s history and protect these invaluable public lands for Red Deerians for generations to come,” said Mayor Tara Veer.
“This work marks the beginning of the long-awaited ability for our community to commemorate the past and to look forward to the potential this public land presents us with in the future.”
Recreational paths are anticipated to remain open as long as possible, but may need to be closed periodically throughout the demolition process.
The city will provide notice of all path closures, and signage will be in place. Residents in the area will also see increased traffic along Crossley Street, on the north side of the site with a new temporary access road being built in that area.