Communities
The following four communities, selected by Alberta Health and Wellness, were involved with Healthy Alberta Communities:
Bonnyville
St. Paul
Norwood/North Central Edmonton
Medicine Hat
Bonnyville (population over 6, 000) is an expanding community located approximately 240 km northeast of Edmonton, Alberta. Its economic climate and employment opportunities have been shaped by the community's agricultural resources and the strong presence of the oil and gas industry. Bonnyville is a major center for government offices and is a service center for the agriculture and petroleum industry.
Bonnyville is surrounded by beautiful lakes and boreal forest that tourists and visitors love. The community has a diverse cultural heritage that is celebrated through various community events, clubs and activities. The new Centennial Centre provides recreational opportunities, as well as a location for post secondary educational pursuit.
Bonnyville Community Report (PDF; 3.2 MB)
St. Paul (population over 5,000) is a community located approximately 200 km northeast of Edmonton, Alberta. The town was originally founded as an agricultural community and important trading centre in the area. St. Paul is ethnically and culturally diverse with a strong French heritage. Throughout the year, a variety of cultural events take place showcasing the rich history of the area. Residents have ample opportunity for recreation via the town's many recreational facilities and the Alberta Iron Horse Trail. St. Paul is proud to be a part of the Alberta Iron Horse Trail which is comprised of many lakes and parkland that are perfect for walking, biking, cross-country skiing, hunting and fishing.
St. Paul Community Report (PDF; 3.0 MB)
Norwood/North Central Edmonton
The Norwood/North Central Edmonton community, as defined by Healthy Alberta Communities, has a total population of over 40,000 and is composed of 11 distinct neighborhoods within Edmonton: Alberta Avenue, Boyle Street, Central McDougall, Cromdale, Delton, Eastwood, Elmwood Park, Parkdale, McCauley, Spruce Avenue, and Westwood.
Norwood/North Central Edmonton is one of Edmonton’s oldest areas, with a history that dates back over 100 years. Overtime, the area has undergone many transformations and has witnessed periods of growth and recession, creating a very dynamic and diverse community.
The Norwood/North Central Edmonton area has currently been experiencing a resurgence of investments and activities, which include the revitalization projects along Alberta Avenue and in Downtown East Edmonton. These efforts have been combined with the activities of community action groups passionate about enhancing the safety and security of the area.
Norwood / North Central Edmonton Community Report (PDF; 4.6 MB)
Medicine Hat (population over 60, 000) is located approximately 300km southeast of Calgary, Alberta. The city, situated along the South Saskatchewan River Valley, is a vibrant community rich in history. The name 'Medicine Hat' originates from the Native word 'Saamis', which means “the place where the medicine man lost his hat”.
Medicine Hat is a part of a region that includes the towns of Redcliff and Brooks as well as other smaller towns and rural areas. In this area, gas, oil and agricultural resources are the foundation of the economy. Thanks to its unique features, the city is attractive to both younger and older generations (over 40% of the population is over the age of 40).
Medicine Hat Community Report (PDF; 3.8 MB)
