An old building has a new look at 22 Wing, North Bay – offering a fresh start for the base’s unique Museum of Aerospace Defence.
The building, now more than 60 years old, has been a museum since the 1980s, sharing the history of the NORAD base and underground complex that used to be in operation at the Wing with visitors to the community. While the building has been regularly maintained, it was due for an upgrade. About two years ago the first stage was undertaken, beginning with new ventilation and heating/cooling systems and other interior upgrades.
This year, the focus turned to the exterior, with the completion of a new look that reflects the history and future of 22 Wing. Using colours used on the first airplanes at 22 Wing and a design reminiscent of wing and tail shapes, the museum now stands out as the special destination it is. Work included new air barrier, insulation, siding, windows and doors.
“I think it’s beautiful – really striking” said Alain Gauthier, DCC Coordinator, Construction Services at North Bay. “I think they’ve done a fabulous job.”
Gauthier – who grew up in North Bay – is glad to see this improvement. And because the work was largely outside, and during a museum closure due to COVID-19, they were able to relieve somewhat the added pressure of protecting the artifacts inside.
The $900,000 project began in September 2020 and was completed in March 2021.
