Enoch Cree Nation near Edmonton undergoing MASSIVE development
A massive financial agreement has been announced that could spur more than $1 billion in commercial and residential development in a nation near Edmonton.
The Canada Investment Bank (CIB) announced it will loan $100 million to Enoch Cree Nation to develop over 250 acres of land. The funds will be used to build water and wastewater mains, roads, and utilities.
Additionally, the loan will support financing and construction of an Elders lodge, cultural centre, health facility, and new office and retail spaces.
The 256-acre development aims to diversify the Enoch Cree Nation’s economy and enhance community services for its members.
CIB
According to the CIB, the project will generate up to 800 jobs for community members and individuals in surrounding areas. Enoch Civil Construction LP, Enoch Cree Nation’s heavy civil construction company, will hold the primary contract for the project.
“This is a historic announcement for Enoch Cree Nation. Like many First Nation communities in Canada, we have struggled to address many infrastructure gaps that hinder our Nation from moving forward,” said Chief Cody Thomas of Enoch Cree Nation.
“This funding enables initiatives that are critical to moving First Nations development forward.”
Construction is expected to be completed by 2027.
The investment follows a $15-million CIB loan in August 2023 towards upgrades to the main transportation artery within Enoch Cree Nation, including pedestrian crossings and a new multi-use pedestrian trail.
It also comes off the heels of the River Cree Resort and Casino’s groundbreaking in late September for its $200 million expansion.
In a post on the Enoch Cree Nation Facebook page, the expansion project is also set to see visitors in 2027.
With files from Laine Mitchell