NEW URBAN PARK FOR PRINCE ALBERT

Premier Lorne Calvert, Environment Minister David Forbes and Prince Albert Mayor Jim Stiglitz signed an agreement today to establish a river corridor urban park in Prince Albert. The new urban park will be called Pêhonân Parkway, which means a "meeting place".

"I truly believe that urban parks are contributors to our quality of life and sense of well being," Calvert said. "There is no better timing to mark the beginning of a new urban park than during our centennial year, so together we can leave a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy."

Pêhonân Parkway, which is 1,400 hectares in size, will become the fifth urban park partnership in Saskatchewan. The other parks are Wascana Centre in Regina, Wakamow in Moose Jaw, Meewasin in Saskatoon and Chinook Parkway in Swift Current.

"Saskatchewan people care deeply about our parks and our green spaces, and there can be no doubt that Prince Albert loves and will continue to cherish its river heritage and natural setting," Forbes said. "This investment is truly in keeping with the centennial spirit of celebration and looking to the future."

The City of Prince Albert has prepared a master plan that has been endorsed by the Saskatchewan government, and will guide development of the park through Prince Albert adjacent to the North Saskatchewan River.

"Prince Albert has always prided itself on its scenic riverbank and I am very happy with this partnership between the city and the provincial government," Mayor Jim Stiglitz said. "The development of Pêhonân Parkway will serve many generations to come and solidify that our riverbank is a destination meeting place."

The Saskatchewan government will provide $198,000 over the next two years for capital development, maintenance and operational investments. In future years, investment will increase determined on a per capita basis. The City of Prince Albert will match this annual funding.

The City of Prince Albert will be responsible for the development, maintenance and operation of the parkway. The Saskatchewan government will also participate in a five-member Parkway Board that will make recommendations regarding implementation of the Parkway Master Plan.

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For More Information, Contact:

Wayne Schick Environment Regina Phone: (306) 787-2849

Ray Morgan City of Prince Albert Prince Albert Phone: (306) 953-4802