“Miracle”, “masterpiece”, “space of contemplation”, Father Luc Tardif was not short of words to express his enthusiasm in front of the new reception pavilion of the Notre-Dame-du-Cap Sanctuary .
The new rector of the premises welcomed numerous dignitaries Friday morning on the occasion of the inauguration of the premises. By speaking of a “miracle”, perhaps he was referring to the approximately 10 million dollars which were raised through, among other things, the contribution of senior governments to carry out this first phase of investment in the Sanctuary. Still, the rector sees this reception pavilion as much more than a place where people introduce themselves before visiting the property.
Benoit Lavigne believes the same thing. Cultural events, citizen meetings, these are examples of activities that can take place in this pavilion where the wood and generous windows give warmth and light.
The new reception pavilion at the Notre-Dame-du-Cap Sanctuary attracted many guests during its inauguration on Friday. (Sylvain Mayer /Le Nouvelliste)
“This is an important project, because the Sanctuary has already been one of the most important tourist sites in Mauricie. We lost a few feathers. We want to become an important partner of the region again.”
— Benoit Lavigne, president of the board of directors of the Notre-Dame-du-Cap Sanctuary
Benoit Lavigne (Sylvain Mayer /Le Nouvelliste)
A phase 2 to come
Some $8.7 million was planned to carry out this first phase of work. An additional million dollars was invested to cover the effect of inflation. The reception pavilion, parking and exterior landscaping are part of the work carried out. The work on the esplanade in front of the basilica will take place in 2025.
The restoration of the south facade of the basilica is also included in this budget. This work is of invaluable assistance to the Sanctuary team which is planning, in a second phase, the restoration of the five other facades of the imposing building.
Phase 2 will require investments of more than $30 million, as the plan also includes the restoration of the gardens and the provision of access to the St. Lawrence River. Like the first phase, the Notre-Dame-du-Cap Sanctuary is counting on help from governments to carry out this second phase. In April 2021, Quebec announced a total contribution of $15.6 million covering the entire development plan.
“Any citizen of Quebec will be able to appropriate [des lieux] to simply come and walk, think, feel good. We live in a somewhat tormented world. This haven of peace is necessary and important,” said Mr. Lavigne, who considers this project to be “a legacy to the population.”
The work on phase 2 of the site restoration will last three years. The Sanctuary wishes to launch this project next year.
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