With new management in place and new opportunities on the horizon, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is looking forward to seeing what is in store for Fort Steele Heritage Town.
The Cranbrook Archives, Museum, and Landmark Society (CAMAL) officially took over on April 1, with a soft opening planned for June 22.
“It sounds, to me, like they’re opening the door to all new ideas and letting the community bring their ideas,” said RDEK Board Chair Rob Gay.
“I’m very optimistic they can bring back some of the old things alongside their new programs.”
CAMAL Chair Keith Powell says this will be a fresh start for Fort Steele.
“We’re endeavouring to bring in diversity, accessibility and thoughtful planning into our management,” said Powell.
“It’s no secret that Fort Steele has declined in the last few years and many people have expressed their disappointment in what has happened. We have endeavoured to put a team of managers in place who will take their responsibility seriously and turn things around.”
Gay says this new direction is an exciting opportunity for local tourism.
There are a number of entrepreneurs out there, the bakery, for example. If you have a good experience, that’s what brings you back. It’s all up to those small business people,” said Gay.
“In the past, they were able to do it. As long as they’re given the opportunity to have the hours they need and experiences they want, that’s the big draw.”
Powell says there will be improvements to livestock care, staff housing and building maintenance.
However, the beloved #1077 locomotive still needs more work before it is ready for the rails.
“We have a steam engineer on site, and we’re still looking for approval to get the engine up and running. We’re not 100 per cent sure when we’ll be getting the green light, but we’re hopeful for this season,” said Powell.
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