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Province accepts Northern Alberta Development Council’s recommendations in principle
FORT McMURRAY, AB. — The Alberta government says northern Alberta will continue to play a vital role in driving the province’s economy, with Fort McMurray leaders helping shape a new report on development opportunities for the region.
The Northern Alberta Development Council (NADC), chaired by Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo MLA Tany Yao, recently submitted its Northern Development Report to government. The document outlines ways to expand economic corridors, attract skilled workers and support Indigenous learners while investing in health, education and transportation.
“I would like to thank all the northern Albertans who took the time to participate in last year’s northern development engagement sessions,” Yao said in a statement. “Your input has been instrumental in shaping the recommendations in the Northern Development Report, ensuring they reflect the true priorities, challenges and opportunities of the region. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant north.”
Fort McMurray is represented on the NADC not only by Yao, but also by Melonie Doucette, vice-chair of the council and director of Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development and Tourism. She said the report highlights the need to keep northern perspectives central to provincial growth.
“Throughout our engagement, we heard many perspectives from across the northern region,” Doucette said. “However, the one common theme is ensuring that the NADC continues to support the growth and contributions of the north to Alberta’s economy. We look forward to further strengthening northern Alberta, and ensuring it remains a place of economic opportunity.”
The province has accepted the council’s recommendations in principle. They include redefining the official boundaries of northern Alberta, creating a comprehensive northern development strategy, and continuing to build infrastructure like Highway 686 to link Fort McMurray with other parts of the province.
Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration Minister Joseph Schow said northern Alberta’s success is critical to the province as a whole. “Northern Alberta plays a vital role in Alberta’s economy, which is why our government is keen to see it succeed,” he said.
Through Budget 2025, Alberta has committed nearly $5 billion for projects in northern Alberta, with additional investments in education, bursaries, and the Northern and Regional Economic Development Program.
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