$114M in funding announced for rural Alberta infrastructure

Key Takeaways:

• Alberta is investing $114.6 million in 86 infrastructure projects to support roads, bridges, airports, and water systems in small and rural communities across the province.
• Major grants include $8.9 million for Brooks’ new wastewater plant, $3.6 million for a bridge near Innisfail, and $3.5 million for a rail extension in Coaldale.
• Officials emphasize the importance of rural infrastructure for economic growth, community resilience, and long-term sustainability.

The Whole Story:

Alberta’s government is investing $114.6 million in transportation and water infrastructure projects across rural parts of the province, aiming to boost economic development and support growing communities.

The funding, announced Friday, will support 86 projects in municipalities through three programs: the Strategic Transportation Infrastructure Program (STIP), the Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater Partnership (AMWWP), and the Water for Life program. These grants will fund local roads, bridges, community airports, water supply systems and wastewater treatment facilities.

“Rural Alberta is the backbone of our province, driving economic growth, feeding the world and strengthening our communities,” said Premier Danielle Smith. “We’re investing in the infrastructure rural communities need to grow and thrive.”

Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen said Budget 2025 includes targeted investments to ensure effective rural infrastructure that supports long-term prosperity.

Of the 86 approved projects, 51 fall under STIP and will receive $41 million in total. Notable projects include:

• $2.6 million for Range Road 150 in Newell County, west of Brooks, to help develop a key truck route.
• $2.5 million for runway upgrades at the Lac La Biche CYLB airport.
• $3.6 million for replacing a bridge over the Little Red Deer River near Innisfail.
• $3.5 million for a rail extension project in Coaldale, allowing local producers to export agrifood goods more efficiently.

Another $73.6 million will go toward 35 water and wastewater projects in small and rural municipalities.

The largest single grant, $8.9 million, will go to the City of Brooks to construct a mechanical membrane bioreactor wastewater treatment plant, replacing the community’s aging lagoon system.

“This project will help us meet the needs of a growing population, support economic development and ensure long-term sustainability,” said Brooks Mayor John Petrie.

Other highlights include:

• $2.4 million for improvements to the Wabasca Water Treatment Plant.
• $923,000 for new water wells in Sylvan Lake to increase supply and ensure access to clean drinking water.
• $14.8 million for the Darwell Lagoon Commission to expand wastewater capacity and protect local watersheds.
• $1.6 million to connect reservoirs in Didsbury and Carstairs to a regional water supply for both residential use and firefighting.

Kara Westerlund, president of the Rural Municipalities of Alberta, welcomed the investments.

“Rural municipalities are the backbone of Alberta’s economy,” she said. “We look forward to building on this progress through sustained, collaborative partnership.”

The province says the funding reflects its broader commitment under Budget 2025 to meet the infrastructure needs of a growing population while supporting health care, education, and job creation.