Demolition work is well underway at the Michener Centre North site in Red Deer. Work will continue through the winter. (rdnewsNOW/Sheldon Spackman)

By Sheldon Spackman

Nine Structures Already Taken Down

Demolitions well underway at Red Deer’s Michener Centre North site

Nov 15, 2021 | 2:44 PM

Abatement and demolition work at the Michener Centre North site in Red Deer is continuing to make progress.

Hadyn Place, press secretary for Alberta Infrastructure, says work began this past spring, with the majority of work anticipated to be complete next fall.

“Site activities throughout the project include removal of hazardous materials from buildings prior to demotion, and landscaping following demolition,” says Place, in a statement to rdnewsNOW. “Of the 28 major structures on site, we have currently demolished nine, which have been taken down to ground level with some foundational work remaining to be completed.”

Place notes, work will continue through the winter.

The project was announced by the provincial government in late 2020, after extensive land and building studies, and reviewing the profound history and sensitive ecology of the escarpment and wetlands in the area.

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“The demolition of the buildings and reclamation of this provincial surplus site will put The City of Red Deer in the best position to make use of the area,” said Infrastructure Minister Prasad Panda, at the time of the announcement.

“Alberta Infrastructure and The City of Red Deer have proven that we can find a solution to benefit all Albertans by working together towards a sale agreement of the Michener North lands, with the demolition and reclamation of the land being our first step,” he continued.

Officials say the province is working with a demolition contractor on the site.

The Michener North lands have deep roots in Red Deer’s history, economy, park space, and natural areas. City officials say the centralized location provides a place to reflect history, access the Waskasoo trail system, experience wildlife and enjoy open outdoor space year round.

Recreational use paths in the area are anticipated to remain open as long as possible, but may need to be closed periodically throughout the demolition process. The City will provide notice of all path closures, and signage will be in place.

Residents in the area will also see increased traffic along Crossley Street, on the north side of the site, with a temporary access road now in place in that area.