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By Wendy Canavan |
World Peace Ten Thousand Buddhas Sarira Stupa Temple
Times have changed in Niagara Falls, Ontario. A century ago Wm. Rogers Manufacturing
Co. Limited operated a silversmith plant on River Road, known as part of the
Niagara Parkway.
In the 1960s manufacturing operations moved into industrial park areas in the city and more commercial developments were developed on River Road. Motorville Car Sales & Service Limited opened in 1969 and the site was operated as a car dealership/service center for almost 30 years.
Then, once again, the trend shifted and the modern dealership design of the
1990s demanded the business relocate to more a residential/commercial area within
the city.
International Buddhist Zen Temple, established in Canada in 1985, purchased
the vacant former manufacturing/car dealership with the help of $18 million
in donations from their fundraising campaign. The majority of the materials
needed for renovations of the former dealership were also donated. Work began
in 1995. The completed temple is very spacious and tranquil. Since the temple’s
opening in 1996, people of all faiths from around the world have visited.
During the International Brownfield Summit in June, this will be one of the stops on the city tour. Mayor Ted Salci and business development staff are looking forward to showcasing our city to the NBA delegates and sharing our stories — from yesterday’s history to tomorrow’s opportunities. BFN
Wendy Canavan is economic development officer for the city of Niagara Falls, Ontario.