CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE The County of Vermilion River invests significantly in critical infrastructure, focusing on areas supporting residential expansion and commercial development. Regarding connectivity, Parkin notes that high-speed internet service is expanding across the County.“We have a provider called MCSnet that is upgrading highspeed internet services for many of our communities,” he explains, recognizing the importance of reliable digital infrastructure for residents and businesses. Natural gas is another critical aspect of the County’s infrastructure network. “We do have a refueling station for public and commercial use just outside of Kitscoty,” Parkin mentions. Water and wastewater management are also at the forefront of the County’s infrastructure initiatives. In Blackfoot, a substantial wastewater project is underway to bolster the community’s capacity for residential growth.“We’ve got about 70 residential lots that will be available once that system gets upgraded,” he states. This $6 million investment is expected to significantly access to Highway 16 and the Canadian National Railway, facilitating efficient business logistics. The County Energy Park provides the necessary infrastructure for those in the energy sector to support oil, gas, and alternative energy projects. Meanwhile, Kam’s Industrial Park offers spaces for agriculture, energy, and manufacturing operations. The County’s proactive approach extends to supporting innovative energy projects. “We have two substantial facilities under development,” Alan Parkin, the Chief Administrative Officer, reveals. These electrical generation facilities use waste natural gas from oil and gas operations to produce electricity, which will then be fed into the grid. In addition to facilitating commercial and industrial growth, CVR operates Alberta’s most significant rural natural gas utility. “It falls under the County of Vermilion River Natural Gas Utilities,” says Parkin. This utility continues to grow, with several projects currently underway. Tourism in Vermilion River 221 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09 COUNTY OF VERMILION RIVER, AB
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