Citing its centrality and unique urban context within the heart of Edmonton's ICE District, the Edmonton Historical Board has brought forward a motion at City Hall to declare the ICE District Tower B construction zone a Historic Resource and Heritage Site. Known colloquially as "The Stump," the long-delayed high-rise project remembered by city elders as ICE District Tower B, has been slowly losing steam as the years have come and gone, its once impressive list of architectural features and wealth of amenities reduced with every subsequent setback. 

ICE District Tower B, Edmonton's newest Heritage Site, image by Forum contributor Daveography

"It was either this or allow something like a park or public green space to occupy the site," said Mayor Don Iveson, who was recorded at a special April 1st Council Meeting declaring his unwavering support for the proposal. "We can't afford to waste this opportunity to stand up for the people of Edmonton and work to actively protect our valuable heritage assets," Iveson continued, his words appearing to confuse and bewilder several members of the public gallery. 

ICE District Tower B, rendering of proposed heritage plaque, image courtesy Edmonton Historical Board

Later, during a routine media scrum on the steps of City Hall, Iveson kept a calm, composed demeanour as he expanded on the City's plans to honour the special cultural significance and history of the ICE District Tower B site. "We are not a very old city, many of our buildings do not date back before the early 20th century, and thus we must work to protect the history we have.... oh, and APRIL FOOLS!"