Construction on McMurray Métis Cultural Centre to Resume in 2025

FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — Construction on the long-awaited McMurray Métis Cultural Centre at MacDonald Island is set to resume in spring 2025, with completion targeted for 2027. The $75-million project, which aims to preserve, showcase, and celebrate Métis culture, was paused in 2022 after a review highlighted cost issues and funding gaps.

The project stoppage came at the recommendations of Infinity Métis Corporation, which was commissioned to evaluate the project. Since that time, McMurray Métis formed a new Project Leadership Team (PLT) under Infinity Métis Corporation to restructure the project. The team, led by Project Director Shawn Myers, conducted a rigorous value-engineering process, reducing costs by 60 per cent and adopting a phased-build approach to ensure financial sustainability.

The Edmonton-based firm Reimagine Architecture has redesigned the centre to meet the original vision of McMurray Métis members, while Bird Construction has been hired as the new construction management firm to oversee the completion.

“Success is the only option when it comes to completing a project that will preserve, showcase, and celebrate Métis culture, history, and traditions,” said Kelly Myers, President of McMurray Métis.

The Cultural Centre hopes to be an asset, not only for McMurray Métis members but also for the broader Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo community. Don Scott, Executive Director of McMurray Métis, stressed the importance of balancing the project’s cultural significance with fiscal responsibility.