Province Invests in Fort McMurray Schools, Health Care and Infrastructure

FORT MCMURRAY, AB. – The Alberta government will be investing nearly $5 billion to strengthen northern communities, with Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo set to receive funding for key infrastructure, education, and healthcare initiatives.

Among the investments, $15 million has been allocated for eight new urgent care centres across northern Alberta, including one in Fort McMurray. The province is also providing $2 million to Keyano College to enhance its nursing and paramedics programs.

Fort McMurray schools will see significant upgrades, with funding for an expansion at Holy Trinity Catholic High School and a modernization of École Dickinsfield. Design work is also being funded for the future extension of Highway 686, which will connect Fort McMurray to Peerless Lake and ultimately link the region by road to Grande Prairie.

“These investments will strengthen the Fort McMurray region for generations to come,” said Tany Yao, parliamentary secretary for northern development. “Northern Alberta has limitless opportunity, and by funding healthcare, education, and infrastructure projects, we are empowering our communities to grow and succeed.”

The urgent care centre in Fort McMurray is part of a broader initiative to expand healthcare access across northern Alberta. While the exact location has not been specified, the province says these centres will help relieve pressure on emergency rooms by providing more immediate medical services closer to home.

Keyano College’s $2-million funding boost is aimed at addressing Alberta’s ongoing healthcare labour shortages by expanding training opportunities for nurses and paramedics. The province hopes this investment will help attract and retain skilled professionals in the region.

The nearly $5 billion in total northern investments, if approved in Budget 2025, will support economic development, healthcare, transportation, and education across Alberta’s north.