Wabamun Waterfront Improvements

As part of our commitment to the growth and diversification of Wabamun Hamlet, Parkland County is investing in improvements to the Hamlet's waterfront area. These investments align with the 2010 Waterfront Area Structure Plan and support the 2022 Wabamun Area Vision. These improvements will provide new public amenity for residents, support economic transition, and encourage future growth in the Hamlet.

Update - December 5, 2023

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.

Alignment with County Planning

The improvements align with the Waterfront Area Structure Plan (ASP, 2010) and the recently adopted Wabamun Area Vision (2022).

Waterfront Area Structure Plan

The Waterfront ASP was adopted by the Village of Wabamun in 2010 and is the binding document that guides growth in the waterfront area. The plan's vision is: "to develop the waterfront into a well designed, comprehensively planned, residential, commercial, and recreational area that incorporates green development principles and helps provide economic stability to [Wabamun Hamlet]." The plan is anchored by the marina and canal, connected by roads and paths, and supported by recreational spaces. The map is conceptual, and future conversations will continue to give shape to the specific road alignments and land uses proposed for this area.

Waterfront Area Structure Plan Development Concept

Wabamun Area Vision

The proposed waterfront improvements also align with the Wabamun Area Vision. The Wabamun Area Vision is a long-range plan for the area around Wabamun Lake, which was informed by multiple public engagements throughout 2022 and accepted by Council in December of last year. As shown in the graphic below, the concept includes a proposed trail linkage and revitalized waterfront at the Hamlet.

Wabamun Area Vision Concept for Wabamun Hamlet