A vacant lot downtown Stettler that formerly housed one of the town’s oldest buildings has been turned over to the Town of Stettler for the creation of a small park.
At its regular meeting last week, council accepted an offer from land owners Don and Sylvia Peters to donate the property on Main Street at the southeast corner of 50 Avenue, formerly occupied by the Stettler Travel. The building was demolished a few years ago.
“We would like to suggest that the park be in some way dedicated to all the pioneer businesses of Stettler from the Peters family,” stated a letter from the Peters.
“I believe this was one of the oldest buildings in Stettler.”
Heartland Beautification Committee plans to work on the project to reflect the wishes of both the town and the donors.
Council is grateful to receive this donation.
“It’s a very significant location and it aligns with the downtown theme to promote the past and continue to grow in the future,” Mayor Dick Richards said.
He and council thanked the Peters for their lifelong commitment to the community and for their example to give back to the community.
“This project has be talked about by the town and the beautification committee for some time,” said Rob Stoutenberg, the town’s chief administrative officer.
A special sign will indicate the history and significance of this property and park.
The lot became vacant in December 2010 when Stettler Travel relocated to the former Town of Stettler office.
Main Street in Stettler has enjoyed the enduring support of successful longtime businesses.
In the past few years, downtown Stettler has experienced many changes, with new and renovated buildings, railway themed architecture, railway track-stamped sidewalks and new and expanding businesses.