WATCH ABOVE: The vintage gem in the River Valley needs an overhaul, which means the park will be forced to close for an extended period of time. Jessica Kent has more.
EDMONTON – Fort Edmonton Park is set for a transformation that could have sections closed for a couple years.
The park needs a major makeover. The underground utilities need to be replaced for the first time in 41 years, like water, sewage and power.
“What’s in place right now is what was put in place when the park opened back in the early 70s,” explained Sandra Green, Fort Edmonton Managing Company.
Construction is expected to start in 2018. Fort Edmonton could be closed for two years, but park officials maintain that would be the worst case scenario. They’re hoping to complete construction during the low-season without disrupting visitors.
“I think it’s more concerning about having a failure with utilities. We want to keep the park open and keep it open for a long time,” said Green.
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The park could also receive an upgrade with above ground facilities, including the 1920s midway and Indigenous People Experience.
The project is still in the design phase. A contractor, price tag, and timeline haven’t been decided, but officials believe construction needs to begin soon.
“I can guarantee it’s in everybody’s best interest to minimize whatever that impact looks like,” said Green.
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Ryan Katona has been coming to Fort Edmonton Park since he was a child and now brings his young daughter to the park. He hopes the impact of construction is minimal.
“I just hope if it’s something they need to do, they can do it within the time that’s allotted,” said Katona.
City council approved a $70 million infrastructure budget for the project last November.
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