Healthcare Center, top-notch schools, and the Parkland Seniors Lodge for aging residents who may need extra care.“All of those are a benefit for those looking to move here,” Zahara asserts. The Edson Airport, conveniently located near downtown, is another advantage for businesses and residents. “Our airport is fairly busy,” says Zahara. “We do have a lot of private aircraft that come in for industry from either Calgary or Edmonton.” The facility also functions as an air tanker base for Alberta Wildfire and accommodates STARS air ambulance services, along with various private operators. “A flight to Calgary is pretty quick, or Grand Prairie, or any of the surrounding cities. If you’re looking to charter a flight, it’s pretty easy,” the mayor depicts. Edson boasts an abundance of green spaces and is continuously enhancing its recreational offerings. “We actually just revitalized our Glenwood Park with a year-round rink,” says Zahara. This versatile space is used for activities like basketball, pickleball, and soccer during the summer and transforms into an outdoor ice surface in winter. The Kinsman Spray Park, centrally located just across from the library, is another popular summer destination, especially for the youngest residents. RCMP Centennial Park is a community hotspot, hosting various events, including concerts, outdoor movies, and Canada Day celebrations. The town is also working on revitalizing Vision Park, known for its ball diamonds, which have historically earned Edson the title of “slow pitch capital of Canada.” Zahara relays that new diamonds are being built, with ongoing improvements in the years ahead. LOOKING TOWARDS A BRIGHT FUTURE Moving forward, Mayor Zahara envisions a continued focus on infrastructure improvements, local business support, and economic growth.“We will be working with our business community, the Chamber of Commerce, and Community Futures. Our economic development officer has been very busy connecting with local businesses, learning how we can better support our business community and really attract investments into our town.” 81 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11 EDSON, AB
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