THUNDER BAY –Chippewa Park’s restoration project is getting federal support from the Canadian Heritage Ministry’s “building Communities Through Arts and Heritage” program in the form of almost half a million dollars.
“This contribution by Heritage Canada is a significant step in achieving the goal of protecting and preserving Chippewa Park’s newly restored 107-year-old C.W. Parker Carousel for the future,” said Donna Gilhooly, Save Our Carousel Committee co-chair.
“The 100th anniversary of the park plus the heritage significance of the pavilion qualified us to apply for this funding. Through this grant, we will connect the 97-year-old pavilion to the historic carousel creating an interpretive area as well as an artisan’s workshop and gift shop.”
The $450,000 in funding to construct an addition to Chippewa Park’s pavilion to house the restored C.W. Parker Carousel was announced by Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Marcus Powlowski on Wednesday.
“Our government's continued support on the restoration of this important and well-loved historical attraction will greatly benefit our community,” said Powlowski.
“I look forward to seeing local residents and tourists enjoy Chippewa Park for many years to come. Thank you, Friends of Chippewa Park, for your continued dedication to this project.”
In addition to the funds from Heritage Canada, Employment and Social Development Canada has invested $23,948 under its Enabling Accessibility Fund for accessibility improvements at the park including modifications to entrance doors to make them more accessible, and modifications to the C. W. Parker carousel to allow for access for wheelchair users.
The contributions for Heritage Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada build on the earlier commitment by the City of Thunder Bay to contribute $300,000 towards the $1.6 million project cost.
“I want to thank the federal government for its support on an addition to Chippewa Park’s pavilion to house the restored C.W. Parker Carousel. I’d also like to thank the Friends of Chippewa Park for their efforts not only towards the restoration of the carousel but for all their work towards revitalizing Chippewa Park,” said Mayor Bill Mauro.
“The City of Thunder Bay is a proud partner in the Carousel Project which preserves an important part of our city’s history and at the same time serves as a key attraction for both visitors to our city and city residents.”
The C. W. Parker carousel was created in 1915 and was located at Chippewa Park since 1935, the carousel is one of only three such attractions in the world still operating today.
The restoration work continues and is expected to be significantly completed in time for the 2022 summer season.
