It took a long time this year, but Spring appears to finally be arriving. The trees are turning green with new leaves, the flowers are out, and it's a wonderful time at the Heritage Park. With Spring comes a flurry of activities, and a visit will turn up lots to do and lots underway on your next visit.

Most noticeable will be the construction of the new roundhouse building. With the foundations now complete, and the track bases in place, you can clearly see how large this grand new facility will be. This will be a facility unlike any other in North America, and a wonderful new community asset for Squamish, as we move to be able to host banquets of up to 1,000 people, major events, and open a unique new first class venue for functions and events. Come and watch it take shape, erection of the steel structure is planned for early June.

A major volunteer work party took place in April, as we work to get ready for the Roundhouse and transform the appearance of our entire site. More than 30 volunteers pitched in on April 19 and 20 to make a big step in clearing up the centre area of the Heritage Park, disposing of much scrap and other stuff that has accumulated over the years. This project will continue throughout the year.

West Coast Mini Rail is in full service, and a good view of the new Garden Railway is available as you take in this great tour around the Park. The Kids Party Kaboose is also available for special events and parties.

Mother's Day will feature a special tea on Sunday, May 11. Besides free admission to the park and flowers for mom, the whole family can enjoy a tea (Reservations appreciated please) in the Mac Norris Station and get a special guided tour of the historic Brightbill Heritage House. Call 604-898-9336 or watch for our ad in The Chief for more information.

We hope you will come and visit in May - there's a lot to see and do for everyone.