Fort Edmonton Park expansion – Premier Notley with Fort Edmonton Park representatives – GOA Photo
by Morinville News Staff
Fort Edmonton Park will see a multi-million expansion the government says will create new jobs and economic growth for Edmonton, the province and the park itself.
The government says the $33.5 million in funding through the Alberta Jobs Plan will be used to build the Indigenous Peoples’ Experience, which will allow Fort Edmonton to offer recreational and educational programming year-round.
Additionally, the funding will be used for expansions to the Johnny J. Jones Midway, Hotel Selkirk and the development of a new guest services and admissions area.
“Long before Alberta became a province, Fort Edmonton played a pivotal role as an economic hub and gathering place for traders and this province’s First Peoples and Métis, Premier Rachel Notley said Wednesday. “With this investment through the Alberta Jobs Program, an important chapter in our history will be shared, and the economic impact of this historic site will continue to grow into the future with new employment and business opportunities.”
The government cites an economic impact study, conducted by Econometrics Research Limited, as showing the expansion creating both immediate and long-term benefit, including approximately 455 full-time jobs during construction and 57 permanent full-time park-related jobs when park additions are completed.
The province believes the additions will increase summer attendance by 76,000 to 245,000 by 2021, and increase annual economic activity by an estimated $7.3 million locally and $23.3 million provincially.
“This contribution will ensure the Fort Edmonton Management Company can continue moving forward as per the vision set out in the 2010 Master Plan,” said Bill Demchuk, Fort Edmonton Management Company Executive Director. “The park’s reputation will be enhanced as a world-class, historical living history experience showcasing the rich and dynamic story of Edmonton and surrounding region.”
