Anybody who says St. Albert doesn't have land available to do business is wrong, according to the city's mayor.
Mayor Nolan Crouse gave his state of the city address to a packed audience of dignitaries from around the region during a chamber of commerce luncheon Wednesday afternoon.
Looking back at 2009, Crouse reflected upon the tremendous amount of work the city has done with regard to economic development.
Key infrastructure projects were completed, such as fire station No. 3 in North Ridge and the first stage of LeClair Way that connects Ray Gibbon Drive to Riel Park. Crouse also noted the approval of the Erin Ridge North area structure plan, which will pave the way for new development in the annexed lands.
St. Albert still has plenty of land to do business in South Riel and Campbell Business Park North, added Crouse, with 66 vacant lots still up for grabs.
With a recently unveiled new branding initiative to be implemented in the coming years, the mayor said the future of St. Albert looks promising.
“Anyone that says we don't have land available to do business is wrong,” said Crouse. “We must continue to look at the areas where we can help developers.”
Crouse also touched on several of the city priorities recently identified by council, such as community safety, environmental sustainability, affordable housing and infrastructure planning.
He received a round of applause when speaking about the city's commitment to the continuation of the Red Willow Trail system.
“We will not waver on the continuation of the trail system,” said Crouse, who noted there's also much progress to be made with the Sturgeon River.
“It's a beautiful river, but we have a lot of work to do to make sure it stays alive in the years ahead.”
As far as infrastructure is concerned, Crouse said the city was aggressive in 2009 maintaining roads and sidewalks. That will continue in the year ahead with various capital projects.
Other notable projects this year will include some significant changes with road connections as the Anthony Henday Drive is further developed. The city is also working with Edmonton on fast-tracking an LRT line that would come up to the doorstep of St. Albert.
