Growth Nodes

A 41.8% increase in population between 2001 and 2006 makes Airdrie one of the fastest growing cities in Canada. To support that citizenry, current construction projects total $216.6 million, with another $41.5 million in waiting – all in a city of just 34,116. Read more >

While this town of 22,000 isn’t currently seeing much bricks-and-mortar expansion, it too is booming by population. Growing 46.7% between 2001 and 2006, Okotoks takes top spot of the fastest growers amongst 2009’s Best Communities for Business. Read more >

Home to 34,597 people, the Rocky View communities are enjoying infrastructure and industrial development worth $420 million. They’re also about to enjoy Alberta’s first new mall in 20 years. The $434-million CrossIron Mills opens this August near Balzac. Read more >

Plans for new bitumen upgraders may have been shelved, but that certainly hasn’t stopped development across Strathcona County, population 85,521. Billions worth of construction continues on pipelines, roads, housing, industry and retail centres. Read more >

On population alone, Wood Buffalo is a serious top-growth contender, increasing 41% between 2001 and 2006. While the municipality exudes optimism with its claim of $95 billion in upcoming projects, current municipal projects bolster bedrock services: water infrastructure, a new recreation centre, police station and housing. Read more >