Rory O’Connor - Manager, Social Responsibility at Teck speaks at the grand opening of Sparwood’s Centennial Plaza. Vince Mo Photography
Nicholas L. M. Allen
Aug 30, 2023
Sparwood, with the support of Teck, unveiled the new Centennial Plaza this August.
The District of Sparwood hosted the grand opening of the revitalized Sparwood Centennial Plaza on August 18 with a community celebration that brought residents and visitors together in the new outdoor space for the first time. The revitalization project was funded through grants and donations, including $1 million from Teck, who also supported hosting for the event.
The Plaza was designed with usability in mind, greenspace, seating, planters and an outdoor fire pit to allow the space to become a functional gathering area, which can be utilized for many community events and activities.
Lighting upgrades have been included to add ambiance allowing the space to be inviting, even during periods of lower light, such as the winter and evenings. Important historical elements of the space, such as the water spray gun and the memorial pillar, have been safely removed and will be incorporated in other locations within the community. The Plaza will be transformed over the summer as visible items such as the shade structure, fire pit, trees, shrubs and seating are put into place.
We would like to extend a sincere ‘thank-you’ to Teck for the generous donation,” said Sparwood Mayor David Wilks after the donation last year. “Teck’s commitment to the community and to the establishment of this space is very appreciated. We look forward to seeing the Plaza be filled with people attending markets, entertainment events, and celebrations, as well as just sitting down for coffee or lunch with a friend. The benefits the community will see from the redevelopment of Centennial Plaza are immense and will last for generations to come.”
The Plaza is intended to be a site that will build social and community interactions, attract visitors and serve to connect people to the outdoors. Key project features are focused on natural landscape, bringing light, outdoor elements, and ambience into the space. With the addition of an outdoor fire pit and lighting, residents will be able to utilize the Plaza no matter the season.
“Teck is committed to creating lasting benefits in the communities where we operate and we’re proud to contribute to the development of Centennial Plaza in Sparwood,” said Robin Sheremeta, Senior Vice President of Coal at Teck. “We commend the District of Sparwood for advancing this project which will be a centerpiece of the community to be enjoyed by all residents and visitors.”
More information is available at sparwood.ca.