The Town of Drumheller is celebrating the completion of one of the latest and largest projects in the town’s history.
On Wednesday, July 4, the Badlands Community Facility was given it’s grand opening. The building had its soft opening at the beginning of March.
At the celebration, residents and dignitaries, such as MP Crowfoot Kevin Sorenson, MLA for Drumheller-Stettler Rick Strankman, and the Drumheller Town Council, gathered in the main foyer and on the upper level. The celebrations began with speeches by dignitaries and those who worked hard to make the building a reality.
Sorenson was excited to see the building essentially finished.
“It feels good. It’s a building is going to be used for a long time. I’ve driven by many times over the course of the construction, but once you see it finished, it really is a great feeling. The facility, as time goes on, will enhance the community,” said Sorenson.
Afterwards, Sorenson read greetings from the provincial Minister of Transportation, Ric McIvor, who could not be in attendance.
In the provincial greetings, McIvor praised the facility, stating it was something the whole region could be proud of.
Mayor Terry Yemen then spoke on behalf of the Town of Drumheller. After the ceremony, Yemen expressed how happy he was with the building and gave some insight into the future of the project.
“It feels incredible, we’ve had a great response. This is one of the most significant things built in our town. It’s up there with the Tyrrell Museum, hospital, and penitentiary,” said Yemen. “We’re focused on fundraising right now, so we can move ahead with phase two of the facility.”
Tony Lacher, co-chair of the steering committee, and Koren McDougald, cabinet member of the fundraising committee, expressed their pride in the facility and thank those who helped make it possible.
Afterwards, members of the Drumheller Town Council, previous council, and Sorenson gathered to cut the ribbon, which was tied across the main stairs. Mayor Yemen and Bryce Nimmo unveiled a plaque, listing those who helped make the facility possible.
Attendees were treated to a barbecue, cake, and live music by Hoodoo Voodoo by the banquet halls and outdoor patio.
There is some work left to do, but Guy Latour, Business Manager for the facility, was optimistic.
“The facility is approximately 99.9 percent done, we’re super close,” said Latour.
For the staff, being so close to completion has given them time to focus on other areas.
“For us, we’ve been focused on getting the building running. My focus now will be on developing more programs to give more value to our over 1,000 members. Feedback has been really positive, but we’re starting to get questions about programs and youth activities. We’re now working to bring service and program levels as high we can in the next couple months,” said Latour.
For video of the ribbon cutting, check out www.drumhellermaill.com.