The federal government is announcing over $2 million in new funding for the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region, and the opening of a new PrairiesCan office.

Minister of Prairies and Economic Development Canada, Dan Vandal, said the new office will bring PrairiesCan directly to the community to address the unique opportunities and priorities of the Fort McMurray – Wood Buffalo region.

As part of the launch, Minister Vandal announced $2,175,997 for six projects that focus on community revitalization, tourism, and economic growth — and support for more than 50 jobs.

“The Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region plays a large part in Alberta’s prosperity, which is why our government is making investments,” said Minister Vandal.

“This is just one more example of how our government is working in partnership with communities on the Prairies and listening to their important insights to create new pathways for economic growth and respond to local priorities.”

The six projects receiving funding are:

• The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is receiving $750,000 to upgrade the waterfront in downtown Fort McMurray into a community park and a venue capable of hosting a variety of public events.
• Fort McMurray 468 First Nation is receiving $503,198 to build a cultural gathering space and community park.
• The Regional Recreation Corporation of Wood Buffalo is receiving $223,000 to enhance recreational opportunities in MacDonald Island Park by installing three outdoor basketball courts and automated batting cages.
• Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism is receiving $499,800 to create a large mobile exhibit that uses virtual reality to promote unique northern Alberta experiences for residents and tourists to explore in the Wood Buffalo region.
• The Fort McMurray Heritage Society is receiving $99,999 to create a year-round outdoor market inside the Fort McMurray Heritage Village.
• Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism is receiving $100,000 to establish a training program and affordable commercial space in downtown Fort McMurray for home-based microbusinesses to better reach potential customers.

“Our region continues to be a major driver of economic and social prosperity for everyone, and these investments recognize this positive contribution,” says Mayor Sandy Bowman.

The new PrairiesCan office is currently located at Startup YMM in downtown Fort McMurray.