St. Albertans have reason to boast following another jump in the city’s population.
According to initial results of the 2018 Municipal Census, the number of people who call St. Albert home totals 66,082, a hike of 1,437 from the previous count two years ago.
The latest census was conducted between May 2 and June 18.
The jump isn’t a major surprise, since the population has been climbing at a slow and steady pace for more than 30 years, according to city statistics. Since 2003 alone, the number of St. Albert residents has risen by almost 11,500.
But the ongoing growth is good news, especially given the economic downturn that has forced many Albertans to leave the province to find work. While many communities, particularly in rural areas, are plagued with dwindling numbers, St. Albert has been the beneficiary of urban migration.
The numbers from the 2018 census show St. Albert continues to walk a healthy middle line in drawing new people to the city. The population isn't falling and it also isn't soaring – instead, we're seeing manageable, steady growth that should make it easier for the city to plan for the future.
An influx of people moving into the city, year after year, is a good indicator of a thriving community. It’s a selling point for the city’s economic development department as it tries to attract new businesses. More businesses opening their doors makes the city even more attractive to potential residents, helping to ensure the steady growth doesn’t stall.
The boost in St. Albert residents must also please municipal leaders who are tasked with planning for today and the future.
A jump in population has a positive effect on the city’s coffers, since provincial and federal departments use population figures when assessing grant applications. Those grants help pay for important services such as municipal policing and transportation. Keeping grant funding at current or even higher levels is always a plus.
Another reason the census is important, it paints a picture of who is living in this community.
The info released on Aug. 13 is bare-bones, giving only a hint of St. Albert’s makeup, leaving a lot of questions.
Seeking reaction to the 2018 census result, the Gazette visited a popular park filled with visitors of varying ages. While those spoken to were pleased with the population boost, they wanted to know more.
Among the questions residents had ... is the city attracting young families? Are there increases in key demographics, including those in the 25-year-old to 29-year-old age category?
Figures from the 2016 census showed the largest population growth that year was in the North Ridge and Erin Ridge North neighbourhoods. The number of residents in those areas jumped by 791 and 785, respectively, compared to 2014.
Taking a drive through those particular neighbourhoods today, they still appear to be prime picks for anyone who wants to put down roots in St. Albert.
But St. Albertans will get a clearer picture of population trends when city administration presents its in-depth analysis to council, expected in September.
Despite the outstanding questions residents may have, they can take pride in knowing their city remains a popular choice in which to settle.
