Local dignitaries take part in a traditional Chinese blessing of the arch construction. Left to right: Senator Vivian Poi, Minister John Baird, Donor Frank Ling, former Mayor Bob Chiarelli, Coun. Diane Holmes, Ambassador Lan Lijun, and Coun. Marianne Wilkonson
After 20 years aborted efforts, local dignitaries and members of Ottawa’s Chinese community have broken ground for the construction of a traditional Chinese arch over Somerset Street at Cambridge.
The project was perennially plagued by financial difficulty but through the lobbying efforts of Chinese ambassador Lan Lijun, the City of Beijing donated $300,000 in materials and has sent 16 artisans and craftsmen to build the royal style arch.
“Ottawa Chinatown gateway is important to the friendly exchanges between Beijing and Ottawa. It is also a significant symbol of China-Canada friendship,” said Lijun.
He also said the project is significant because it marks the 40th anniversary of Chinese-Canada diplomatic relations.
Somerset Ward Coun. Diane Holmes praised the co-operation of the city’s federal and provincial politicians John Baird and Yasir Naqvi for their contributions of $125,000 each to the project.
The City of Ottawa contributed $160,000 to reinforce the sidewalks in order to support the arch’s weight.
Holmes encouraged residents to take advantage of the construction over the next six months to watch how the artisans erect the intricate traditional architecture. As part of the ceremony the Chinese community led dignitaries in a traditional Chinese blessing that asks God for safety, good weather, and smooth progress for the project.
Frank Ling, an active member of the Ottawa-Chinese community and Order of Canada recipient, made an impromptu $25,000 contribution to the project during the ceremony.
Other dignitaries who attended included former mayors Jim Watson, and Bob Chiarelli, Minister of transport, infrastructure and communities John Baird, MPP Yasir Naqvi, the arch’s honourary patron Senator Vivian Poi, and members of the Chinatown BIA.
Ottawa and Beijing have been sister cities since 1999 and making it the 27th such Canada-China linkage.
The arch is scheduled to be completed by October.