New tourism landmark proposed for Pass

A proposal for a 50-foot-tall miner’s Davy lantern was presented to Crowsnest Pass council as a potential tourism attraction and tribute to the community’s coal mining history.

Ron Hungar, representing Preservation of Crowsnest Pass History and Heritage Limited, brought the idea to council during the May 26 meeting. He said the project would create what he described as the tallest miner’s Davy lantern in Canada.

The proposed structure would be about 50 feet high and 12 feet in diameter. It would include an interior double helix staircase leading to an observation deck.

Hungar said the project would honour the Davy safety lamp, which was historically used by coal miners to detect dangerous gases. He said the lantern would serve as both a heritage marker and a tourist attraction.

Hungar said the lantern would be funded through grants, donations, sponsorships and partnerships rather than through property taxes. His presentation estimated a project cost of about $302,000, plus in-kind contributions and land.

He said the idea is to create a draw that would make travellers stop in the Crowsnest Pass instead of continuing through on Highway 3.

“We need Crowsnest Pass as a destination point,” said Hungar.

The proposal included a climbable staircase, observation deck and visitor information component. Hungar said the structure could help direct visitors to local attractions, including the Crowsnest Museum, Bellevue Underground Mine, Roxy Theatre, Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, miners’ memorials, Pass Powderkeg and other community sites.

Hungar said the project has potential land support near Bellevue, close to the Bellevue Catholic Cemetery area. He said the location would provide visibility from Highway 3, easy access and nearby utility services.

He told council he is seeking municipal support, including a letter of support that could help with grant applications and fundraising.

Councillor Tony Vastenhout said he supported the concept and called it a dream project.

“I am a firm believer of this dream project,” said Vastenhout.

Councillor Dean Ward said coal mining has been a major part of the Crowsnest Pass, both historically and in the present.

“No, there’s no doubt mining is a big part of our past, present and our future,” said Ward.

Mayor Pat Rypien said she liked the concept of having a theme that reflects the Crowsnest Pass coal mining history, though she said council would also need to consider other possible community symbols.

Hungar said his goal is to complete design and engineering by the end of 2026, with construction finished by the end of 2028.

Council did not make a funding decision during the delegation.