MLA Yap Presents Funds for Steveston Legacy Project

by John Yap, MLA Richmond-Steveston
(Steveston, BC Canada)

The fishing history of the Steveston waterfront will be honored by a life-sized statue thanks to $200,000 from the province's BC150 Program. "Being located at the mouth of the Fraser River, Steveston is well situated to be a unique tourist destination," said Richmond-Steveston MLA John Yap. "This legacy project will help make this vision a reality, and will provide a perfect focal point for Steveston's historic waterfront park."

The funding, presented to the Steveston Community Society, will go towards the construction of a life-sized bronze sculpture depicting three fishing industry workers, circa 1930, in front of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery. Renowned artist Norm Williams, a graduate of Steveston High School, has been commissioned to create the statue. The statue will serve as a visible reminder of Steveston's colorful multicultural makeup during the heyday of canneries, and pay tribute to an important part of the city's fishing history. The statue is expected to be completed by March 2009, with an official unveiling in spring 2009.

"This statue was designed as a mark of respect to those who helped build this marvelous community, and to enhance visitors experience to historic Steveston through a photo op with the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site in the background," said Loren Slye, director of the Steveston Legacy Project. "We greatly appreciate this contribution from the province supporting our town."

"The heritage of Steveston and the involvement of so many different cultures in the fishing industry is one of the building blocks on which our modern City of Richmond is based," said Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie. "This new monument will recognize the importance of our fishing and cultural history and will be another important step toward�our vision of establishing Richmond and Steveston as the regional destination for heritage tourism experiences."

BC150 is a celebration of the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Crown Colony of British Columbia in 1858. Every community in B.C. is invited to participate in this year-long celebration of B.C.'s cultural diversity, community strength and widespread achievement. For more information on BC150 programs and events, visit www.BC150.ca.

For more information on the Steveston Legacy Project, click here.