The Alberta government has recently shifted its stance regarding the historic former home of the Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) in Glenora, Edmonton, announcing that it will now accept proposals from the community for repurposing the building. Infrastructure Minister Martin Long acknowledged the strong emotional connection that Albertans have to the museum, stating that the government is eager to explore all potential uses for the site. This decision follows a call for lengthy discussions, allowing various stakeholders to submit their ideas. The province has issued a formal request for proposals, with submissions open until September 26, aiming to use community feedback to influence the future of the location.
The change in approach comes after previous announcements indicated that the building was slated for demolition due to extensive structural problems, including contamination from hazardous materials. Last summer, the provincial government revealed plans to replace the old museum with green space surrounding the adjacent Government House, citing annual maintenance costs of about $700,000 and an extensive repair estimate of over $200 million. The ministry justified the potential demolition costs, which were expected to range between $22 million and $48 million. With essential systems like heating, ventilation, and electrical well past their life expectancy, the government had pointed to the financial impracticality of maintaining the facility.
Community groups, notably the “Save the Old RAM” task force, rallied to prevent the demolition, urging the provincial government to pause its plans and reconsider alternative uses for the historic site. In response to this advocacy, the Alberta Infrastructure ministry initiated a comprehensive review of possible options. This included conducting an online survey and engaging with First Nations and various community organizations to gather input on how best to proceed. The goal was to ensure that community voices were heard in the decision-making process, recognizing the building’s significance beyond its current state.
The former RAM opened its doors in 1967 as part of Canada’s centennial celebrations and was designated a royal museum during a visit from Queen Elizabeth II in 2005, marking Alberta’s centennial. However, since the new Royal Alberta Museum opened in downtown Edmonton in 2018, the old building has sat unoccupied for nearly a decade following the removal of all exhibits and artifacts in preparation for the museum’s relocation. The building’s exterior features materials such as marble from Ontario and granite from Quebec, alongside Indigenous petroglyphs that highlight its cultural heritage, further emphasizing the need for careful consideration regarding its future.
The recent decision to solicit community proposals indicates a willingness from the government to reevaluate its previous plans, highlighting the importance of public sentiment in shaping the future of significant local structures. By allowing community involvement, Alberta’s government aims to preserve an integral part of Edmonton’s history. The hope is that new proposals can lead to innovative ideas that not only repurpose the building but also maintain its historical integrity, serving as a resource for future generations.
Overall, the transition from a demolition strategy to an exploratory process signifies a broader recognition of the value that historical sites hold in community identity. It illustrates how public advocacy can impact governmental decision-making, encouraging a collaborative approach to preserving history while addressing modern city needs. As the September deadline approaches for proposals, the community remains engaged, eager to see how the former Royal Alberta Museum may be revived and integrated into the city’s landscape once more.
