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Downtown Fort McMurray

Downtown Fort McMurray is a lively hub for local businesses, recreation, and community life. A strong downtown benefits everyone by boosting the local economy, creating jobs, and bringing people together. The Municipality is investing in projects and partnerships to support local businesses, enhance safety, and build a welcoming, dynamic downtown. The goal is to ensure it thrives as a gathering place and economic hub for years to come.

Exploring Downtown

Residents and visitors have plenty of options downtown with the Borealis Forest and the confluence of rivers at the heart of Fort McMurray. From canoeing and kayaking on the Clearwater River, relaxing at kiyām Community Park, and cycling along waterfront trails to shopping, dining, and socializing at local businesses, or visiting fitness centres and educational facilities – there’s truly something for everyone. 

To learn about upcoming community events and activities occurring downtown, visit the Mac Calendar.

There is a wide range of outdoor activities for all ages. Explore multi-use trails that connect you with nature, or enjoy recreation options like beach volleyball, spray parks, disc golf, cycling, and more. To plan your next adventure, visit the Parks and Facilities page.

Located along the waterfront, Snye Park and Borealis Park are two of downtown’s most popular destinations. Snye Park reflects the region’s history and is a hub for water activities, fishing, play, and community celebrations. Nearby, Borealis Park features a pond, a spray park, winding trails, and a skating area, making it a year-round spot for adventure and relaxation.

Downtown is the region’s main shopping district, with a variety of businesses offering everything from everyday essentials to unique finds for a full day out. Looking for something specific? Visit the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce business directory to explore local options.

Located along Franklin Avenue, Kiyām Community Park is a central location to gather, exercise, or unwind. Surrounded by trees and greenery, residents can enjoy lunch, play one-on-one basketball, or ice skate, making every visit unique.

Hosting an event to celebrate an occasion? Event spaces are available to book downtown.

Explore all that Wood Buffalo has to offer—whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor. Discover aerial tours, winter roads, and backcountry adventures at fmwb.ca.

Enhancing Downtown

Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan

The Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan outlines the guidelines and guiding values for future development in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region.

The plan offers an extensive overview of the opportunities for developing the region that is in line with the community’s vision for the downtown area, bringing together private and public interests for a prosperous future.

Download the plan today to be part of shaping a thriving future for Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo's downtown community.

Check out some of the other projects and initiatives developed to support the growth and beautification of downtown.

Reimbursement grants are available to support eligible downtown commercial, institutional, mixed-use, and apartment properties. 

This initiative promotes beautification, community pride, and environmental responsibility. Through the Nominate Your Neighbour campaign, residents can celebrate a neighbour or local business for enhancing their property.

Help create a litter-free downtown! During the warmer months, you can sign up for a Community Cleanup and help keep the downtown an attractive destination.

Improvements to roads, parks and other municipal infrastructure downtown help revitalize the area and keep the community moving forward. View a list of all current downtown construction projects.

The Chamber supports economic growth by championing locally operated businesses. With hundreds of members, it provides opportunities for networking, collaboration, and events. Learn more about how you can become part of the region’s business community.

FMWBED fosters entrepreneurship and tourism in the region, encouraging innovation, investment, and the promotion of local attractions.

See graffiti? Report it by contacting PULSE. Property owners are responsible for removing graffiti on private property, but PULSE can provide a free removal kit to help.

NAABA is a non-profit organization that supports the success of Aboriginal entrepreneurs and promotes their active participation in the regional economy.

Startup YMM is supports and advocates for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, Startup YMM offers a wide range of resources to help you succeed.

Downtown Safety and Security

The Municipality is taking steps to improve safety in downtown Fort McMurray for residents, visitors, and businesses with initiatives that include:

  • Stronger coordination of policing, enforcement, and social services.
  • Training on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).
  • Expanding community outreach.
  • Offering grants for security upgrades.

Learn more about the latest crime prevention tools and initiatives at rmwb.ca/CrimePrevention.  

Business Crime Prevention Kits reduce the risk and impact of crime on businesses in the downtown area, and encourages Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. 

Downtown businesses can apply to make crime prevention improvements, such as installing security cameras or reinforced doors, through the Downtown Revitalization Incentives Program

We are committed to managing encampments compassionately and efficiently.  This collaborative strategy addresses each situation through well-defined phases, ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals involved.

Council-appointed Committees

Committees advise Council on important community matters and give residents a chance to provide input into local decision-making. Two committees are focused on downtown:

  1. Wood Buffalo Downtown Revitalization Advisory Committee
  2. Wood Buffalo Waterfront Advisory Committee

View other boards and committees related to downtown and beyond. 

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