Fernie miners walk

Nick Giuliano, of the Fernie Visitors Centre, and his wife Mary have been one of the driving forces behind the new Miners Walk being constructed in Fernie. Nick is pictured here holding an artist's concept of the finished project.

The historic Miners Walk construction is underway, just in front of Fernie's City Hall. It will be a plaza featuring a walking path, gardens, monuments and plaques; all saluting the rich legacy of mining and resource development in the Elk Valley.  The overall project is slated to cost something in the neighbourhood of $500,000.

"The Miners Walk will tell the whole story of the importance of mining and the powerful effect it has had in shaping what Fernie is today. This will be done by creating an outdoor exhibit that is compelling, enduring and attractive. From this, people will gain a respect for what happened in the past, what is happening now and what will be part of creating a positive future." writes Mary Giuliano, one the driving forces behind the project.

Within the context of the overall mission, a number of specific goals for this project have been identified:

• Tell the story of significant players in coal mining in the area
• Describe the geology and natural and human history of the Fernie area as it relates to coal mining
• Engage Fernie and area residents including schools and clubs in the creation process

Completion is slated for later in 2011.