StonyPlain_web

TOWN OF STONY PLAIN, ALBERTA Edmonton which was supposed to cut through Stony Plain. But the track totally missed its mark. Not willing to lose out on the economic benefits the railroad represented, intrepid town elders literally moved their small community to the railway. Using 20 teams of horses, the buildings were rolled to the present site of Stony Plain. As predicted, the move drew more settlers.When Stony Plain was incorporated as a town in 1908, the population was over 1,000. Today, that colorful history is kept alive through a public art program, consisting of magnificent outdoor paintings and sculptures created by artists across Canada. From early Postal Service, to the first Town Sheriff, to its unique aboriginal heritage, Stony Plain’s murals are a popular tourist draw for the region. Brenda Otto, Stony Plain’s Economic Devel- opment Officer, speaks to the recent growth and future direction of this dynamic little com- munity. “In the past four years, Town Council has been proactive about creating growth and development that’s a good fit for Stony Plain, with a focus on community development, gov- ernance and partnerships, economic opportuni- ty, supportive infrastructure, and environmental responsibility.” A key project is the redevelopment of Heri- tage Park, which includes the Pioneer Museum. The initial phase exhibition pavilion was com- pleted in 2012, and this year has seen construc- tion of an adjacent 500-seat venue for events, conferences, and gatherings – cultural and ar- tistic. The town has also partnered with private developers in the north business park. Over 100 acres of industrial/commercial employment lands are now serviced, and the whole commu- nity is excited to see new business and employ- ment opportunities coming into those spaces. Stony Plain Sustainability Planner, Miles Dib- ble, says there is a lot going on with infrastruc- ture improvements. “Boundary Road runs north- south through the town and is one of our major arterial roads. It’s currently being improved from a two-lane (one in each direction, part of which is gravelled) to make it four lanes in some areas, particularly the northern half, and give it a paved cross-section between highways 628 and 16A.We’re also working with the province of Alberta on a multi-year endeavor to upgrade highway 779. The first phase between the