Wakaw Celebrates Completion of 1st Street South Revitalization

The town of Wakaw officially inaugurated the revitalization of 1st Street South with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on August 16, 2023. The event drew over 100 community members despite inclement weather, marking a significant milestone in the town’s ongoing infrastructure improvements.

Community Engagement and Celebratory Events

The ceremony commenced at 11:00, led by Wakaw’s Recreation and Community Development Manager, Dwane Burke. Attendees were treated to celebratory cupcakes and invited to explore local businesses offering special promotions. The event also coincided with the final “Walk-aw” Day of the season, providing an opportunity for residents to connect with vendors at the Farmers Market and support local initiatives, including a fundraiser for the Travel Club.

Among the notable attendees were Wakaw Mayor Mike Markowski, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Melissa Dieno, Batoche Constituency MLA Darlene Rowden, and representatives from neighboring municipal governments and engineering firms. The presence of local contractors such as ASL Contracting and Valley Trenching underscored the collaborative effort behind the project.

Acknowledging Contributions and Future Impact

In her address, CAO Dieno expressed pride in the project’s realization, stating, “This project began as a vision of Council, and I am incredibly proud to have played a part in bringing that vision to life.” She extended her gratitude to the project team, especially Carolyn Wright, the lead engineer, and Alysha Kraft, the engineer-in-training. Dieno highlighted the essential roles played by the public works team, including Tom Oleksyn and Neil Fidler, for their prompt responses to challenges throughout the project.

Mayor Markowski emphasized the importance of the project, noting its inception approximately six years ago as part of a broader strategy to replace aging infrastructure. He explained that the revitalization of 1st Street South was prioritized due to its deteriorating condition, which hindered both foot and vehicular traffic in the area. The improvements include widened sidewalks and smooth pavement, enhancing accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

As the main business corridor, the upgrades to 1st Street South aim to support existing enterprises and attract new ones. The revitalized street not only serves the local community but is also expected to benefit tourists visiting the area for recreational activities at nearby lakes and themed excursions on the Wheatland Express Excursion train.

Markowski concluded by thanking Dieno and Burke for their unwavering support in bringing this significant project to fruition, while Dieno acknowledged the resilience of the business community during the construction process. The revitalization of 1st Street South is poised to become a vital asset for Wakaw, enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.