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.
Downtown Fort McMurray is a vibrant gathering space that supports local businesses, recreation and is at the heart of the community. A strong downtown core benefits everyone as it helps grow the local economy, creates jobs, and brings the community together.
The Municipality is prioritizing investments and improvements to the downtown core to address challenges and embrace opportunities so this area can continue to be enjoyed for decades to come. Learn more on how the Municipality is doing this and explore popular downtown attractions below.
Downtown Visualization – Strategic Plan 2022 - 2025
Council’s Strategic Plan for 2022-2025 identifies downtown visualization, which will focus on enhancing public safety, elevating the local economy, and enriching recreation opportunities.
- Support the creation of a strategy for downtown that identifies and coordinates municipal investment and improvements
- Ensure a review and update of the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan is completed
- Support the creation of detailed land map for future downtown planning that guides the public and businesses on the vision for downtown
- Approve, enhance, and enforce bylaws and beautification standards
- Incentivize private investment in the downtown
- Conclude flood mitigation infrastructure investments
- Complete waterfront beautification
Council-appointed Committees
Committees help advise Council on important community matters, giving residents a chance to provide input to decision-makers in local government. There are two committees related to downtown visualization:
There are several Council-appointed committees related to the downtown and beyond. Learn more about these opportunities and be part of a board or committee that suits your interests and skill sets.
Exploring downtown
Residents and visitors have plenty of options available 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 the Kiyām Community Park, and cycling along waterfront trails to shopping, eating, and socializing at local businesses, to fitness centres and education opportunities – there’s truly something for everyone. To learn about upcoming community events and activities occurring downtown visit the Mac Calendar.
| Trails |
| A variety of multi-use trails are accessible for all forms of recreation and being one with nature. Decide on which path you’d like to take by using the Parks and Facilities page. |
| Recreation Facilities |
| There are many choices for leisure, from beach volleyball to spray parks, disc golf, cycling, and more. To view opportunities, visit the Parks and Facilities page. |
| Snye Park |
| The waterfront is a destination that reflects the long history of the region, with multiple opportunities to participate in water activities, fishing, and play. Not to mention a staple for community events to bring the region together in celebration. |
| Borealis Park |
| A beautiful park located close to the waterfront that features its own pond with an assortment of adventure. The Borealis Park includes a spray park, winding trails, and a skating pond for all to enjoy. |
| Shopping |
| The core shopping district for the region, downtown businesses offer an array of options to enjoy a day of shopping, or quickly getting exactly what you need. Need help finding something? Check out the Fort McMurray’s Chamber of Commerce business directory. |
| Kiyām Community Park |
| 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. Interested in hosting a special event at the park? Apply here. |
| Facility Rentals |
| Hosting an event to celebrate an occasion? Opportunities to book event space including Jubilee Plaza are available, to inquire about rates or to learn more visit the Facility Rentals page. |
| Explore Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo |
| Explore all that Wood Buffalo has to offer whether your a long time resident or visitor. Learn about aerial tours, winter roads, and backcountry adventures by visiting here. |
Enhancing downtown
The Municipality has numerous projects and initiatives that support growth and beautification of downtown.
| Downtown Revitalization Incentives Program |
| Investment incentives are available in the form of reimbursement grants for downtown businesses. Various opportunities are available for development improvements including beautification, murals, façade, patios, premises, and interiors. As of spring 2022, this program has generated over $12 million in investments to downtown. To learn more, visit the incentives page. |
| Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan |
| The downtown is an all seasons, accessible destination that showcases our people, our business, our services, and our amenities. Creating a plan for the revitalization and development of downtown Fort McMurray will create spaces all residents can enjoy. Engagement on the draft Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan was completed April 30, 2023. First reading was completed during the June 27, 2023 Council meeting and is scheduled for second reading (Public Hearing) and third reading on September 12, 2023. Visit rmwb.ca/arp to get involved. |
| Downtown Construction |
| Making improvements to roads, parks and other municipal infrastructure downtown helps revitalize the area and keeps the community moving forward. Find a list of all current downtown construction projects and temporary impacts at rmwb.ca/construction. Sign up for notifications to receive email updates on downtown construction, or choose updates based on the neighbourhood where you live. |
| Communities in Bloom |
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An important initiative encouraging beautification, community pride, and environmental responsibility. Communities in Bloom creates opportunities for residents to recognizing a neighbour or local business for beautifying their property through the nominate your neighbour campaign. |
| Community Cleanup |
| 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. |
| Graffiti |
| Issues with graffiti, or needing to report graffiti? If you spot it, report it by calling Pulse. Graffiti removal on private property is the responsibility of the owner. Contact pulse to receive a graffiti removal kit. |
| Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce |
| Dedicated to promoting economic growth and development through locally operated businesses. Representing hundreds of members through networking, collaborations, and events learn how to be part of the business community. |
| Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA) |
| The Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA) is an non-profit organization that creates an environment that promotes business success and engagement of Aboriginal Entrepreneurs in our economy. |
| Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development |
| Fostering an entrepreneurial and tourism priority for the region, FMWBED encourages innovation, and development while exploring all the attractions the region has to offer. |
| Startup YMM |
| Creating and advocating for small businesses and entrepreneur is what Startup YMM is all about! Whether you’re starting your business or expanding, Startup YMM has an extensive list of resources. |
Downtown Safety and Security
Discover the initiatives and programs put into place to ensure the safety of residents living, working, visiting and travelling through downtown Fort McMurray.
These include:
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Deploying policing, enforcement and social services in a more streamlined, efficient and coordinated manner.
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Training internal and external stakeholders on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED).
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More effectively coordinating community outreach partners to improve service delivery to vulnerable individuals downtown.
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Expanding the Downtown Revitalization Incentive Grant to include security improvements.
In April 2024, Council passed a motion that directed the Municipality to consider opportunities to enhance safety and security for the downtown.
| Business Crime Prevention Kits |
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Business Crime Prevention Kits reduce the risk and impact of crime on businesses in the downtown area. The kit encourages Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. |
| Crime prevention improvements |
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Downtown businesses can apply to make crime prevention improvements (e.g., exterior security cameras, reinforced doors, etc.) using the Downtown Revitalization Incentives Program (DRIP). |
| Downtown Community Policing Office |
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In 2022, the Downtown Community Policing Office opened its doors to the public. Since then, the downtown area has seen increased visibility of uniformed officers from both the RCMP and Bylaw Services. |
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Responding to encampments |
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We are committed to managing encampments compassionately and efficiently. Our collaborative strategy is designed to address each situation through well-defined phases, ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals involved. |
Learn more about the latest crime prevention tools and initiatives at rmwb.ca/CrimePrevention.