If you haven't been out to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park for a while, now is the time to drop by and have a look at what we have been doing over the winter.
You will be greeted with a large new structure at our entry gate, our imposing new CN Roundhouse and Conference Centre. All being well, it will start drawing new groups of people to Squamish this fall, first up being the Association of Railway Museums annual conference, which will see 150 delegates come to Squamish for six days.
As we work hard to meet this goal, we are into our final push for Roundhouse funding.
The total project is worth some $7.8 million (much of which is being spent with local contractors) and we have raised over $5.5 million of that to date. Private funders have contributed $3.6 million, the province $2 million, and we are currently working to have the federal government participate as well.
We still are seeking some funding partners to ensure the building's completion on time.
There are a limited number of naming opportunities available now, from putting names on each of the seven exhibit tracks to naming the plaza outside the building. In addition we are able to offer investment opportunities with a six per cent interest rate on a minimum $10,000 investment with a two year term.
These opportunities are set to ensure that we are able to complete and open this magnificent new structure for the benefit of the entire Squamish community and economy. Interested in participating? Call Don Evans at 604-988-3435 and we will talk with you about how you can help the project.
We are delighted to report that the Heritage Park is now back in full operation after a tough winter. The West Coast Mini Rail trains now operate the entire trip around the Park once again, and cleanup activities are underway as we tidy up for a busy 2009 season.
Day Out With Thomas tickets are selling, you should consider getting yours soon. This great family event is back for 2009 with the Heritage Park becoming a Thomas the Tank Engine theme park on four days in June - June 6 and 7 and June 13 and 14. More information at the Heritage Park, 604-898-9336 or at www.wcra.org
