Today in Edmonton, Minister Ambrose announced federal funding of $1.5 million toward the development of a strategic plan to help position Port Alberta as a major North American inland trade and transportation hub.

“This investment marks an important step toward building the foundation needed to make Port Alberta a reality and success,” said Minister Ambrose. “This investment will help develop a blueprint that will bring the Port Alberta concept to life and create an industry-led council to provide leadership for the initiative.”

Port Alberta has the potential to transform Edmonton Region into a major North American warehousing and distribution hub that combines air, rail and road transportation infrastructure with links to Asia and the United States.

The funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada will support the building blocks of research, partnership and plans that will contribute to developing a strong and vibrant Port Alberta. The project will identify opportunities for Port Alberta, determine the economic impact and develop an action plan to ensure established targets are met.

Western Canada and Alberta are well positioned—both geographically and economically—to take advantage of changing dynamics in the global economy. The Edmonton region, in particular, has the potential to become a major North American trade and transportation hub between Asia and North America.