Meewasin Valley Project creator dies at 93 – Saskatoon
“He was undoubtedly resilient and truly a visionary leader who will be sorely missed. »
Andrea Lafond, CEO of Saskatoon’s Meewasin, this week mourned the loss of Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama, a man credited with a lasting legacy in Saskatoon.
Creator of the Saskatoon Meewasin Valley Project, Moriyama sought to bring accessibility and vibrancy to the city’s riverfront.
“The objective of the centenary project was to conserve the cultural and natural places and spaces of this corridor with a 100-year vision and plan for how these sites would be accessible to the public for today and for future generations”, said Lafond. .
Thanks to Moriyama’s vision, Saskatoon has 107 kilometers of trails that people can enjoy along the banks of the river.
“Those of us who participated owe a debt of gratitude to the people of Saskatchewan and their representatives for the honor of being invited to apply our sk**ls and experience to the preservation and enhancement of a resource unique regional,” Moriyama said in the original Meewasin Valley draft. document.
The document ended with Moriyama’s words: “Ultimately, the future of this resource will depend on a question that each of us must ask ourselves. What kind of legacy do I want to leave for my children and their children?
Lafond said the project aims “to honor nature and honor history.”
The Meewasin Valley Project celebrated its 44th anniversary on Monday. Moriyama had participated in the Meewasin Vally Authority organization since its origin.
“When I started my position, I was surprised to receive an email from Moriyama himself, congratulating me on my new challenge,” Lafond said. “He wrote that ‘in this role there will be many joys and honors, but also challenges, battles and hard work.’ Take up the torch and lead the way, aspire high and inspire others, stay healthy, happy, work hard and be brave.
Lafond said Moriyama’s email has been printed on his desk for the past five years.
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