Purpose-built as a museum in 1965, the former Royal Alberta Museum building in the Glenora neighbourhood housed numerous artifacts that inspired and educated generations of visitors. To help keep these positive memories going, a new green space is being designed to take the place of the old building, creating a new site where families can gather again. As part of this project, the vacant building will be demolished, while Government House and the Carriage House will remain on the site.

“The old Royal Alberta Museum building has been a part of our province for decades, and we know many Albertans have happy memories and sentimental stories from visits there. The green space we’re planning will give residents and visitors the opportunity to create new memories in one of the nicest areas in Edmonton.”

Pete Guthrie, Minister of Infrastructure

Albertans are invited to have their say on what they would like to see at the new space. Repurposed elements from the old building? A playground? Ideas can be submitted in the online survey.

In addition to public consultation, Alberta Infrastructure is also working with Indigenous communities.

“The Royal Alberta Museum has been focused on preserving and promoting our province’s heritage since 1967. In its new location in downtown Edmonton, the Royal Alberta Museum continues to impress and inspire Albertans and visitors alike. A new, welcoming green space in place of the former museum will add to the serenity of Government House and Edmonton’s river valley.”

Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

Located in Edmonton’s Glenora neighbourhood, the original provincial museum was purpose-built in 1965 and has been sitting vacant since 2015. A new $375.5-million Royal Alberta Museum opened its doors on October 3, 2018, in downtown Edmonton.

When the new museum was announced, Albertans were informed of significant issues with the old building. Based on feedback from the community, the possibility of renovating and repurposing the structure was investigated; unfortunately, the repairs and costs are too extensive to be practical.

Quick facts

  • The cost to demolish the building is estimated between $22 and $48 million. This includes abatement, demolition, civil works and engineering.
  • After the old museum closed to the public in 2015, all assets were removed from the building.
  • The cost of deferred maintenance on the structure is estimated to be $75 million.
    • The cost to repurpose the building for another use would have been at least $150 million, including the deferred maintenance cost.  
  • Alberta Infrastructure currently absorbs over $700,000 in operating and maintenance costs annually even though the building is vacant.
  • The building’s doors opened in 1967 to celebrate the centennial of Canadian Confederation.
    • It was renamed the Royal Alberta Museum in 2005 when Queen Elizabeth II visited to mark the 100th anniversary of Alberta’s entry into Confederation.

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