Whistler’s Answers: October 20, 1983Whistler’s Answers: October 20, 1983
In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1983. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: When construction began on the Whistler Convention Centre, plans included a swimming pool, an ice rink, saunas, racquetball and squash courts, a restaurant and more. By 1983, when it had been taken over by the Crown corporation Whistler Land Co. Developments and redesigned under Chester Johnson, most of the extra facilities had been eliminated. Find out more about the early plans for the building here.
Question: Is the new Whistler Convention Centre design adequate?
Doug Greenwood – Hotel Manager – Whistler Cay
From the beginning the centre was designed wrong. It should be just a convention centre. It would be nice to have an ice rink, but that wouldn’t stimulate jobs. I don’t understand why it can’t be ready sooner (before April ’85). There’s men available and 24 hours in a day.
Ron McCready – Restaurant Manager – Whistler
I think it’s great. The vast majority of people at the meeting were pleased. My only disappointment is that the convention centre won’t be open in time for next winter. The design is great, it’s exactly what’s needed.
Laurie Vance – Hotel Employee – Alpine Meadows
I think it’s wonderful I’m sorry they’re not putting in a swimming pool, that would have been nice. But it wouldn’t help Whistler if everyone complained about it. The time frame is as fast as they can do it.