Wabamun Waterfront Improvements

Crews have been working hard to prep the washroom building for its big move today!

Separating the Washroom Raising the buildingSupporting beams to help move the buildingSupporting beams to help move the buildingNew home for the washroom New view from the playground to the water

Work on the expanded beach area was completed in the fall. Work continues through the winter with a focus on getting the washroom building moved while the ground is frozen. Once the foundation for the new location is completed, crews will mobilize to move the building.

NEW BEACH AREA - from the west looking towards the washroom NEW BEACH AREA - from the west looking towards the washroom NEW BEACH AREA - from the east looking towards the pierNEW BEACH AREA - from the east looking towards the pier

NEW WASHROOM LOCATION - Rebar work for the new foundation

An update on the Wabamun Waterfront Initiative was provided to Governance and Priorities Committee on Dec 03

RFD 24-331 - Agenda

Video (35:02)

Construction is well underway on Waterfront Park - Beach area is almost complete, and work is underway on the expanded day use parking area and moving the washroom facility to its new location.

Expanded beach with brand new sand

Parkland County recently welcomed an announcement that the Government of Canada will provide $29.9 million to support key infrastructure projects within the County to assist our economy’s transition away from coal-fired power and towards other economic pathways.

The funding is offered through Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) with $17.5 million invested into upgrading Wabamun’s wastewater systems to alleviate capacity pressures and to revitalize the Waterfront Park with the installation of an updated spray park, expanded beach and recreation areas to provide residents with improved facilities while boosting tourism.

“These investments are key to encouraging the future growth of our community and improving the quality of life of our residents, businesses, and visitors,” says Mayor Allan Gamble. “This funding supports improvements to County infrastructure and will boost local tourism and development while leading to future economic prosperity and a sustainable economy.”

Parkland County expresses gratitude for the funding received from our federal partners, PrairiesCan. Investments such as these stimulate the economy and strengthen our communities as we move forward in new economic pathways.

More details on the full investment are available here.

Wabamun Waterfront Revitalization Project

Project Overview

The project approach for the Wabamun Waterfront Project aims to: improve user experience; enhance safety; think long term; reuse what can be saved; help address local parking issues; minimize operating cost impacts; and respect the lake.

Key Design Elements Include: Splash Park Upgrade; Washroom Relocation; New Shade Structure/Stage; Beach Expansion c/w vegetative rip rap peninsula; Plaza; Hardscape seating area; Parking Lot Expansion; Site Lighting; New landscaping throughout; New Site furnishings; Play Park Re-surfacing.

Master Plan Rendering

*Image is a rendering only; final design details may change.

Shade Structure & Stage

*Image is a rendering only; final design details may change.

View of Splash Pad and Beach

*Image is a rendering only; final design details may change.

Splash Park

*Image is a rendering only; final design details may change.

Parkland County is committed to carrying out upgrades to Wabamun’s waterfront area that will improve lake access while enhancing resident’s enjoyment of the lake. This week, you may notice some work starting in Waterfront Park. Spray heads will be removed, testing will be carried out, and the Spray Deck will be fenced off in anticipation of construction that is planned to commence in spring 2024. Stay tuned for more details as we approach construction season!

Project Overview

We are moving forward with three improvements in Phase 1:

1. Inland infrastructure to support a future marina, which includes a public beach and swimming pond.
2. A public waterfront walking trail that links the area south of the CN rail line between the railway crossings at Prospect Drive and 50th Street.
3. Expansions and upgrades to the waterfront park and playground area.

This investment will provide new public amenity, connectivity, and improvements to existing spaces for all Wabamun residents and visitors. It will set the stage for sustainable growth and foster a healthy and accessible public waterfront.

The feedback received at the Public Engagement Sessions is now available in the 'What We Heard' Report.