Black Diamond park named after greenhouse namesake

A park in Black Diamond is being named for a long-time resident and founder of Vales Greenhouse. 

The park at 606 Centre Ave. will be known as the ‘E. Anne Vale Park’ in recognition of the late Anne Vale’s contributions to the Foothills community. The decision to name the park, located near the site of the public parking lot on the west side of Black Diamond, was made during the Town's council meeting on Oct. 5.

Vale lived in Black Diamond for over 50 years and was an active member in the community, the Town said. 

A past Town councillor, she played a part in creating the Diamond Valley Neighbours Club and the Black Diamond Figure Skating Club. Vale also helped bring the Marigold Library System to town. 

Her achievements were recognized with a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. 

She moved to Black Diamond in 1968 and lived on the site of what would become Vales Greenhouse before starting the business in 1975. It continues today. 

Much of the park will remain a natural area, the Town said, with trails, picnic areas and access to the Sheep River. 

Vale passed away in 2019.