Aerial view of Red Deer's Michener Centre North site. (City of Red Deer)

By Sheldon Spackman

Preparations Underway

Demolition of Michener Centre North poised to begin next month

Apr 16, 2021 | 1:25 PM

Demolition work will soon be getting underway on one of Red Deer most historic parcels of land.

According to provincial officials, the anticipated start for abatement of Michener Centre North is the last week of April, with demolition activities to begin soon after.

Michener Centre North is a 158-acre site containing 28 major structures and is located west of 30 Avenue and north of 55 Street behind Safety City.

“The demolition contractor is required to comply with all Regulatory Requirements related to hazardous material removal,” says Jo-anne Nugent, Director of Communications for Alberta Infrastructure, in a statement to rdnewsNOW. “Hazardous materials will be removed safely from the buildings prior to demolition activity. An Environmental Consultant hired by the Province will be on site monitoring hazardous material removal activities.”

Nugent says the demolition area will be fenced to ensure public safety.

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“To the west of the buildings, park paths beside the escarpment are operated by the City of Red Deer,” she explains. “These paths are anticipated to remain open for as long as possible. Specific activities will warrant closures for safety purposes.”

“The greenspaces adjacent to the site will remain open for as long as possible,” adds Nugent. “Underground utilities are scheduled to be removed from this area. Sections of the greenspaces will be restricted when this work is scheduled.”

Nugent estimates the project budget for all studies, abatement, demolition, site reclamation, and interim security is approximately $15-20 million. She says the project is expected to support approximately 85-100 jobs.

According to Nugent, total project completion is anticipated for October 2022.

Meanwhile, officials with the City of Red Deer, say The City will engage with residents about future community uses for this site following demolition and remediation by the provincial government, and following the conclusion of the land acquisition process. That engagement process is expected to begin towards the end of 2021.

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

The intent, according to the City, is for the Michener North lands to be remediated and developed into protected public lands.