Feds commit $1M to Diefenbunker renovations
The federal government has announced plans to spend just shy of $1 million to renovate a Cold War era museum in Ottawa.
The investment aims to make The Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum more environmentally friendly and accessible, while extending the life of a site of great historical importance.
“The Diefenbunker is a monumental site that attracts thousands of tourists annually with its fascinating insights into our nation's Cold War history,” said Kanata—Carleton MP Jenna Sudds. “These additional investments will help preserve and enhance the museum, while enriching visitor experiences and further promoting tourism in the Ottawa area.”
The comprehensive retrofit of the 100,000-square-foot underground cultural facility aims to enhance environmental conditions and accessibility. The upgrades will include improved air ventilation systems, a new entrance to support more accessibility, and upgraded electrical systems to improve efficiency and support future technology.
The improvements are expected to reduce the facility's energy consumption by an estimated 31.1% and greenhouse gas emissions by 3.3 tonnes annually.
“These facility upgrades will allow us to create more accessible and vibrant community spaces for the public to engage with history, so that we can continue thriving as a one-of-a-kind museum and immersive history destination for visitors from across the country and around the world,” said Diefenbunker executive director Christine McGuire.
The federal government is investing $977,753 in the project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program. The Diefenbunker is contributing a further $244,439.
The GICB launched in 2021 with an initial investment of $1.5 billion over five years towards green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades. Budget 2024 announced an additional $500 million to the fund support more projects until 2029.