Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: June 22, 2010 7:00 PM
Vernon’s civic centre has gone through a transformation. On Tuesday, Spirit Square was officially opened between city hall and the museum. “The design reflects our unique history,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert. Anchored by two large rocks, Spirit Square includes a water feature representing the historic Grey Canal and interpretive panels related to the role the irrigation flumes played in development of Greater Vernon. The square also features walkways, seating areas and gardens. “The city has done a great job,” said Eric Foster, Vernon-Monashee MLA, who attended the ceremony. “It’s a beautiful addition to the community. It celebrates the past and looks to the future.” Spirit Square has already hosted Earth Day and a reception for the Vernon Vipers, and the goal is to hold other special events there. Lippert says the cost of Spirit Square was $400,000, with $250,000 coming from the provincial government. He believes it was a good use of money. “The civic plaza was in need of repair. It was getting pretty worn and torn,” he said. “It showcases what we have. We need to have civic pride.”Besides Spirit Square, the adjacent brick leading up to city hall has been replaced and there has been an expansion to council chambers. The total cost for all of the work is $860,000.“I’m happy with what we’ve done and we’ve done it for a fair price,” said Lippert.
Among those at Tuesday’s ceremony was Tom Christensen, who helped the city obtain provincial funds when he was MLA. “It’s a fantastic gathering space. It’s better than I ever anticipated,” he said.
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