Municipality pleased with land development partnership
(Fort McMurray, AB – June 23, 2008) – The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is pleased to partner with the Alberta government in a land development project that will create homes for about 40,000 people in the Fort McMurray urban service area.
“I am pleased to report we will be working with the province to build thousands of homes in Parsons Creek and on the Saline Creek plateau,” said Mayor Melissa Blake.
“The release of additional provincial lands and affordable housing were key components of the Radke report. This project will address those components in a big way.”
More than 4,000 acres will be developed, resulting in thousands of new dwelling units. Housing will be complemented by schools, health clinics, recreational facilities, parks and other community services.
The project follows up on work undertaken by the municipality’s planning and development team over the last several years. The municipality has also worked with the province since February on key issues of capacity, partnership and commitment, laying the foundations for today’s announcement.
“There’s no question the Fort McMurray region desperately needs additional housing,” said Mayor Blake. “But the region also requires other infrastructure, including schools, health and recreational facilities and other quality of life services. This unique partnership will involve other local interests to ensure those needs are addressed.”
Mayor Blake said the project is yet another example of how effectively two levels of government can work together.
“The involvement of the province in this effort is essential to addressing housing and infrastructure needs in a more efficient and timely manner.”
-30-
CONTACT:
Susan Motkaluk
Deputy CAO, Public Services
780-792-5961
Andrew Stuckey
Sr. Communications Advisor
780-743-7918
