A new entry point connecting Calgary with the Tsuut’ina Nation opened to the public on Thursday. The Tsuut’ina Parkway links Taza Park with WestHills in the city’s southwest. The newly completed segment of road is the final piece of the ring road vision that began 13 years ago in 2013, when the Tsuut’ina Nation and the province signed an agreement that made the project possible. “This is a huge milestone. It’s a longtime coming,” said Minor Chief Zachary Manywounds. “This roadway is more than just a simple roadway; it’s a pathway connecting First Nations and Albertans and Canadians.” Tsuut’ina Trail, the stretch of the ring road that crosses the Nation, now connects with Taza Park, Buffalo Run and The Crossing. “Tsuut’ina has had major causeways dividing us from our neighbours,” Manywounds said. “Now we have more entry points that connect us to Calgarians and to Albertans.” “Our good friends in Signal Hill — this will be the first time that they’ll have access to this part of Tsuut’ina, which I think is important and essential for our relationship with Calgarians and Albertans.” To celebrate Thursday’s opening of the road, officials held a ceremony grounded in Tsuut’ina traditions at one of the roundabouts. Elder Charlie Crowchild and traditional helper David Meguinis offered a land blessing and prayer before Tsuut’ina Nation dancers and drummers performed. To close the ceremony, guests joined hands with the dancers in a Round Dance around the new roundabout, a ceremony that brings people together to heal, honour and celebrate community connection and life. “It’s historic,” Manywounds said. Last month, Tsuut’ina Nation hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at Taza Park West for a new Walmart Supercentre. The grocery and home goods giant is the first tenant of the 470-acre Taza Park community, targeted to open next winter.
