News Releases

Good progress is being made now on safely opening the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road, but early warm weather and low snowfall delayed construction timelines. It is still too early to say when the winter road will open.

Subzones 1 and 2 will be active from Dec. 15–19 for snow removal operations, with on-street parking restrictions in effect. 

At its Dec. 9 meeting, Council approved a $149M 2026 Interim Municipal Budget to fund municipal services for the first quarter of 2026. This interim budget ensures residents continue to receive the services they rely on. The full 2026 operating and capital budgets will be presented to Council through a series of budget meetings scheduled for Feb. 3-5, 2026, with Feb. 6 set aside as an additional day if needed.

The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is moving forward with an updated approach to this year’s Santa Claus Parade and Council’s Starry Night to ensure residents can continue to enjoy these cherished traditions despite the extreme cold.

Since the safety of volunteers, contractors, participants, spectators and RMWB staff is the top priority, the Santa Claus Parade will shift to a drive-thru parade on Sunday, December 7. Floats will be staged along Clearwater Drive from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., allowing residents to take in the festive displays from the comfort and warmth of their vehicles.

Spectators are encouraged to enter the parade route at the intersection of Franklin Ave. and Clearwater Dr., near Home Hardware. Spectators cannot enter the drive-thru parade from the intersection of Riedel St. and Clearwater Dr. Businesses along Riedel St. will continue to be accessible.

The Santa Claus Parade comes to town on Dec. 6! Gather your family and friends for the festivities beginning at 5 p.m. in kiyam Community Park for Council's Starry Night and then the parade begins at 6 p.m. on Main St., heading south on Franklin Ave.

Stay tuned for road closure and transit impacts by going to rmwb.ca/santa.

Municipal contractors are building the Fort Chipewyan Winter Road, despite delays caused by warm weather.

Construction work will continue in December, with a target opening date before Dec. 25. As always, the opening of the winter road is dependent on weather and the progress crews make in ensuring the road is safe for vehicles.

At the Nov. 25 meeting, Council approved Administration’s recommendations to adjust several user rates for Municipal services. The updated rates will take effect April 1, 2026. 

While there are no changes to most rates, increases have been made for some municipal services. Certain fees have also been decreased or removed.

A community tradition marks a milestone this year as the Stuff-A-Bus toy drive celebrates its tenth anniversary. RMWB Transit is again partnering with Santas Anonymous, a student-led program at Father Mercredi High School to gather toys and donations for local children and families.

Nominate your neighbour with the best festive displays today on rmwb.ca/NYN. 

All nominees will receive a recognition lawn sign and a certificate from the Wood Buffalo Communities in Bloom committee.