Construction underway on new RAM

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RAM construction kickoff

L-R Mr. Chris Robinson, Executive Director RAM; Honourable Heather Klimchuk, Minister of Alberta Culture; Mr. Francis Alexis, historian Nakota Sioux First Nation

Federal-provincial partnership supports cultural infrastructure in Edmonton’s Arts District

Excavation work paused today in downtown Edmonton for an Aboriginal blessing to ceremonially mark that construction is underway on what will be a marquee cultural and educational attraction for Canadians and visitors from around the world – the new Royal Alberta Museum.

The $340.5-million project will offer twice the floor space of the existing museum and will feature many new highlights such as an interactive children’s pavilion as well as a gallery for international exhibitions. An energy efficient climate control system and other features will help lower future operating costs.

Demolition of the old Canada Post office previously on the site is now complete, with 90 percent of the material being recycled or re-used. Construction of the new Royal Alberta Museum is expected to be complete in 2016 with the grand opening expected in late 2017.

Quick Facts

 The Government of Canada is investing up to $122.5 million in this project: up to $92.5 million from the Major Infrastructure Component of the 2007 Building Canada Fund, and $30 million previously committed through the federal Alberta Centenaries Program.

 The Government of Alberta has committed to providing $218 million.

Report courtesy of Royal Alberta Museum