Save the old RAM: Task force fights demolition of former Royal Alberta Museum building

Alright, I’m looking at this query where the user wants to summarize and humanize some content into 2000 words with 6 paragraphs and headings. The content is about saving the old Royal Alberta Museum building.

First, I need to understand the main points. The building is slated for demolition, but a task force is trying to save it. The museum opened in 1967, got a royal designation in 2005, and closed in 2015. It’s historic, with marble, granite, and Indigenous petroglyphs. The new museum opened in 2018, so the old one has been empty since.

The government says demolition is needed because of high maintenance costs and structural issues, but the task force is fighting that. They’re planning a campaign, like putting hearts on the fence.

I should structure this into clear sections. Probably start with the heritage, then the closure, government’s stance, task force efforts, significance, and a conclusion. I need to make it engaging, not too formal, so people connect emotionally.

I need to ensure each paragraph flows well, maybe start each with a strong topic sentence. Use more conversational language, avoid jargon. Make sure the history and emotions come through.

I should check the word count, aim for around 2000 words, so each paragraph roughly 333 words. That’s manageable. I need to highlight the historical value, the community’s attachment, and the conflict between preservation and demolition.

I’ll make sure headings are clear and each section builds on the previous one. Use some storytelling elements, maybe mention the send-off party in 2015 to show how much it meant to people. Also, highlight the symbolic gestures by the task force, like the hearts, to show grassroots support.

I think that’s a good approach. Now I can structure the content accordingly, keeping it humanized and informative.
# The Fight to Save the Old Royal Alberta Museum: A Historic Battle for Preservation

## A Iconic Building’s History and Significance
The old Royal Alberta Museum (RAM) building, located in the Glenora neighborhood of Edmonton, has become the focal point of a passionate debate over its future. Opened in 1967 to commemorate Canada’s centennial, the museum was a source of pride for the province and a celebration of its rich history. In 2005, during a visit by Queen Elizabeth II to mark Alberta’s 100th anniversary, the museum received its royal designation, solidifying its place in the province’s cultural heritage. The building itself is a testament to Canadian craftsmanship, featuring marble from Ontario, granite from Quebec, and ancient Indigenous petroglyphs that add to its historical significance. For nearly five decades, it served as a space where Albertans and visitors could explore the province’s natural and human history.

## The Closure and Relocation of the Museum
In 2018, the Royal Alberta Museum relocated to a larger, state-of-the-art facility in downtown Edmonton. The move was the culmination of years of planning and preparation, with the original museum closing its doors to the public at the end of 2015. Before its closure, the museum hosted a 48-hour send-off party, allowing visitors to bid farewell to the beloved building. The event was a bittersweet celebration, as the community came together to honor the museum’s legacy and share memories of the countless hours spent exploring its exhibits. Following its closure, the building remained empty, with all exhibits and artifacts moved to storage in 2016 and 2017.

## The Government’s Plan for Demolition
In the summer of 2023, the Alberta government announced that the old RAM building would be demolished to make way for a new green space surrounding Government House, located along 102 Avenue atop Groat Road. The decision was made amid concerns over the building’s deteriorating condition and the rising costs of maintaining it. According to the government, the annual operating and maintenance costs for the empty building amount to over $700,000. Additionally, the estimated cost of demolition is between $22 million and $48 million. The Alberta Ministry of Infrastructure has cited the need for over $200 million in repairs to the building, stating that its critical systems, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical, and water systems, are well past their life expectancy. The government also highlighted structural issues and contamination from hazardous materials as reasons why the building has no practical use and cannot be repurposed.

## The Community’s Call to Action: Saving the Old RAM
Despite the government’s stance, a dedicated task force known as “Save the Old RAM” has emerged to advocate for the preservation of the historic building. This group, comprised of community members, heritage advocates, and history enthusiasts, is urging the province to reconsider its decision and explore alternative uses for the structure. They argue that the building’s historical and cultural value far outweighs the costs of demolition and renovation. The task force has proposed a moratorium on demolition to allow time for further assessment and creative solutions.

## A Symbolic Display of Love and Support
In a creative show of solidarity, the “Save the Old RAM” task force plans to place hearts on the construction fencing surrounding the old museum on Valentine’s Day. This symbolic gesture is intended to demonstrate the community’s love and appreciation for the building and its historical significance. The campaign not only aims to raise awareness but also to inspire others to join the fight against demolition. By transforming the fencing into a visual display of support, the task force hopes to send a powerful message to policymakers about the importance of preserving Alberta’s cultural heritage.

## The Bigger Picture: Heritage Preservation in Alberta
The debate over the old Royal Alberta Museum building reflects a broader conversation about heritage preservation in Alberta. As the province continues to grow and develop, questions arise about how to balance progress with the protection of historic sites and structures. The old RAM building is not just a physical structure; it is a living connection to Alberta’s past and a source of pride for its people. While the government’s focus on financial and practical considerations is understandable, the task force’s efforts highlight the importance of integrating heritage preservation into urban planning and development. The outcome of this debate will set a precedent for how Alberta chooses to honor and protect its cultural landmarks in the years to come.

In conclusion, the fight to save the old Royal Alberta Museum is more than just a battle over bricks and mortar—it is a fight for the soul of Alberta’s heritage. As the province moves forward, it is essential to consider the value of preserving spaces that tell the story of who we are and where we come from. The old RAM building may be empty, but it is far from lifeless. It holds memories, stories, and a sense of identity that cannot be replaced. Let us hope that the voices of those who cherish this piece of history are heard, and that a solution is found that honors both the past and the future.