A gathering space to mark a 36-year sister city partnership between Stettler and Okoppe, Japan is now open in the downtown core.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on August 5 to honour the long-standing relationship between Stettler and Okoppe, Japan, which was first established in 1990 under former mayor Bob Stewart.
Takehiko Wajima, Consul-General of Japan in Calgary, attended the ceremony alongside Charles Halverson, associate for culture and public relations at the consulate.
“Although we may speak different languages, I hope this will become a place where people share experiences, discover something new about Japan and strengthen the friendship between our two countries,” Wajima told the crowd.
The pedestrian walkway sits on a previously vacant downtown lot, serving as a pedestrian link between Main Street and a public parking lot to the east.
“What we dedicate today is a lasting symbol of friendship, volunteer commitment, and community pride,” Stettler Mayor Gord Lawlor told those gathered.
“Looking around today, we’re reminded this friendship has never belonged to one mayor, council or generation. It has always belonged to the community.”
The site features an entrance archway modeled after a similar gate built in Okoppe, sail shade structures, etched historical signage, and concrete-and-wood park furniture.
Former resident Rob Brownfield, who visited Okoppe 35 years ago as part of a local Chamber of Commerce delegation, recalled the warmth of his Japanese hosts and the long-term impact of student exchanges between the two communities.
“At the time, being a Prairie boy, it was like, raw fish? No thanks!” Brownfield said with a laugh, reflecting on his first experience eating sushi during the trip.
“Since that time I’ve come to appreciate it as one of my favorite meals… it was a wonderful experience for our family and maybe it’s something that the town will look at again.”
Town council approved the $72,000 project in phases starting in July 2024, with final funding greenlit in mid-2025.
The transformation of the vacant downtown lot was kept within its total $72,000 budget after the town council had to scale back initial plans in 2025.
Facing high quotes for a permanent pavilion structure, council opted instead for removable sail shades, and scaled back garden designs.
Okoppe Trail at West Stettler Park
The walking trail through West Stettler Park was named after Okoppe in 2000, while Okoppe designated a street in its own community named after Stettler.
Following the speeches and ribbon-cutting, organizers invited the guests and municipal staff involved in the construction for photos.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
