Memorial committee unveils plans for Humboldt Broncos tribute centre

On Monday, the day before the third anniversary of the Humboldt Broncos bus crash, the memorial committee unveiled its plans for something more about inspiration than grieving.

The committee is proposing a tribute centre in the city of Humboldt. It would have a hockey rink and fitness facilities, but also a gallery telling the stories of the team and those who were hurt and killed in the crash.

“There was an opportunity to do more than just build a simple, solemn memorial to those who are lost,” explained Joe Day, Humboldt’s city manager.

“There was the opportunity to also just celebrate what each of those who were lost really stood for, to celebrate the outpouring of support from around the world, to build something that could benefit the community for generations and to create a place that inspires each person who comes to visit here to be motivated to be the best person that they can be.”

During the presentation, several spoke about the head coach at the time, Darcy Haugen, and the core covenant he created for the team. It included things like “Treat my teammates and coworkers with respect,” and “Conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity.”

The families of two victims were involved in the memorial committee. Carol Brons is Dayna Brons’ mother.

“It is my hope that this tribute centre will help many young people fulfil their potential and achieve their aspirations,” said Carol Brons.

“As a family, we were awed by the outpouring of love and generosity by people around the world and we were so thankful for these many acts of kindness and love. And I hope this permanent symbol of this kindness and love will bring hope and healing to everyone affected by April 6 and inspire others to live the core covenant.”

Rob Muench is Humboldt’s deputy mayor. He said the project will help the community move forward.

“It’s been tough on a lot of people over the last three years,” said Muench. “As the community and as the families — I would probably like to speak for them as well on this — is (the hope for) anything that can come positive and good out of this, and I think this centre is going to be that.

“It’s going to be something that we can all get behind to influence and to provide that positive aspect going forward.”

The tribute centre is in the very early stages and, while things could change, it’s estimated to cost about $25 million. Day said it could be about two years before a final concept plan is developed.

There is also a roadside memorial to be constructed at the intersection where the crash happened. Day said it could go ahead sooner.

The memorial committee is looking for organizations and people who want to help bring the project to life. Some groups have already reached out and Day said it could take a year to do the necessary legwork.

On April 6, 2018, a semi and the Broncos’ bus crashed, killing 16 people on the bus and hurting another 13.