In spring 2020, Ptarmigan Court experienced significant flooding. As part of an ongoing response and flood mitigation strategy, RMWB Council and Administration developed several programs and policies to enhance community safety and address the unique needs of Ptarmigan Court.
Buyout program and home-raising program
Property owners in Ptarmigan Court had the option to pursue a buyout agreement, participate in the Home Raising Program or continue with the status quo. The 69 property owners in Ptarmigan Court chose the following:
- 52 chose a buyout (35 homes/developed lots and 17 vacant)
- 3 chose to raise their homes
- 14 chose to remain status quo (12 homes/developed lots and 2 vacant)
All homes acquired by the Municipality have been removed from Ptarmigan Court. 32 of these homes are in good condition and being transferred to Wood Buffalo Housing and Development Corporation to help address the housing needs in the region’s rural communities. Three homes were deemed unsafe for future habitation and demolished.
The work to raise the three properties participating in the Home Raising Program is complete.
Crews have remediated all on-site hazards on the acquired land, including underground utilities, electrical, natural gas, site grading and removed pilings, fences, decks and steps.
Future plans for Ptarmigan Court
Topsoil and grass seed will be placed on the acquired land in Ptarmigan Court in the fall of 2022. This work is being completed in the fall to reduce the impact of dust and mud throughout the summer.
The Municipality will continue to cut the grass, clear snow and maintain the acquired land. Other services such as curbside collection and mail delivery will continue to be provided in the neighbourhood.
The Municipality is currently assessing long-term options to protect and preserve the natural landscape and environmentally sensitive land in the area. As part of next steps, there will be workers in the area as Municipal lots are surveyed. Recommendations for future land use in Ptarmigan Court will be provided by Administration to Council for consideration.
The Municipality is committed to keeping Ptarmigan Court safe and properly maintained for community members. Further updates on long-term plans for Ptarmigan Court will be provided as soon as they are available.