More funding coming to Kananaskis Country

CALGARY (660 NEWS) – The Alberta government is committing more funding to Kananaskis Country on the park’s 40th anniversary.

Premier Rachel Notley announced $12-million of investment to better many different areas of the major tourist attraction.

“It is a jewel in Alberta’s Rockies, with millions of people and families visiting every year,” she said Monday. “Thanks to the dedication of the many Albertans who saw the value in preserving this land for their kids and grandkids, and the willingness of Premier Peter Lougheed to act for the future, nearly two-thirds of K-Country’s 4,200 square kilometres is now protected for Albertans to enjoy today and for generations to come.”

The money will go towards many different aspects of the area.

“More upgrades at William Watson Lodge, in addition to great new cabins, providing barrier-free wilderness lodging for persons with disabilities, seniors and their families. You’ll continue to see trail upgrades, especially if you’re hiking up Ha Ling. And, there will be better emergency services with the firefighter training program.”

RV lots will also be improved, along with campsites getting more fire pits, and surrounding roads will be revitalized as well.

The event also honoured former premier Peter Lougheed, who sparked the creation of K-Country. Members of the Lougheed family were also on hand to accept a plaque and take part in cutting the birthday cake.

Notley adds that this event reminds everyone of the legacy left behind by Lougheed and that she hopes her government leaves a positive legacy for the environment as well.

“At the end of the day, we have a continent-leading plan to combat climate change and to make the kinds of hard decisions that are necessary to protect and preserve our land and our air and our water for generations to come.”

Last week, the government also committed over $5-million for the redevelopment of the Lower Kananaskis River – Barrier Lake Area.

The Kananaskis region welcomes approximately 3.3 million visitors every year.

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