Headlines: July 2, 2024

July 2, 2024 · The Pulse
By Mariam Ibrahim

Edmonton's recreation facilities and programs lack effective planning and equitable distribution, according to a new audit report. The report found the City of Edmonton has not been adequately reaching out to the broader public or using demographic data to identify gaps and barriers in programming and access. In response, the City plans to gather more public feedback and create a strategy to improve equity in resource allocation, with a new policy expected by 2026.
Edmonton's Green Shacks program offers children aged six to 12, and younger kids with guardians, free summer activities like games, sports, and crafts beginning July 2 until Aug. 22. The program runs weekdays with varying hours at locations around the city, and activities will be posted weekly on-site.
WestJet has reached an agreement with its aircraft mechanics to end a strike that disrupted travel plans for tens of thousands over the Canada Day weekend. Despite the agreement, the airline warned that flight disruptions will persist as planes are returned to service. Travellers are advised to check their flight statuses. About 680 members of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association employed by the airline walked off the job on June 28 after federal Labour Minister Seamus O'Regan issued a binding arbitration order. The union, which has secured a tentative five-year deal including pay raises and benefits, directed its members to resume work immediately pending a vote on the agreement.
A three-year-old boy died after he was hit by a Ford F150 truck at a marked crosswalk near Allard Road and Allard Boulevard SW in Edmonton on June 27. The boy was walking with his mother and sister, who both sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Police said neither speed nor alcohol are believed to be factors in the incident.
The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team is investigating after an Edmonton Police Service officer fatally shot a 28-year-old man in northeast Edmonton on June 29. The shooting happened in the Fraser neighbourhood, where officers were responding to a report of an impaired driver whose vehicle had rolled over. Police located the driver and shot him during a confrontation. He was taken to the hospital but died from his injuries.
Edmonton's new residential parking permit program, which included a $120 annual fee in some neighbourhoods, has been paused following resident complaints and pushback. Initially set to start on June 1, the program aimed to manage high on-street parking demand, but faced criticism for its rushed implementation and extended permit hours. City council's urban planning committee recommended a pause in June, and the program is expected to be discussed at an upcoming council meeting.
Leder Investments Ltd. has purchased the historic Army and Navy building on Whyte Avenue for more than $2 million, after it had been vacant since closing in 2020 due to the pandemic. The building, a cornerstone of Edmonton's retail landscape since 1928, is expected to be revitalized and potentially open by next summer.
Downtown Edmonton is revitalizing post-pandemic with new retail stores, dining options, and community spaces, highlighted by the success of the ICE District during the NHL playoffs, according to some business leaders. Vibrancy projects, flexible bylaws, and pedestrian-friendly corridors are helping to increase foot traffic, said Heather Thomson with the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. However, challenges remain with empty office spaces and underutilized areas, although efforts to convert office towers to residences and support new retailers show promise for sustained growth and vibrancy.
Mayor Amarjeet Sohi appeared on Alberta Primetime to discuss a variety of topics affecting the city, including the positive impact of the Edmonton Oilers' playoff run on the city's economy, which generated nearly $200 million in economic activity. Sohi also emphasized the ongoing challenges of homelessness and the need for more affordable housing, highlighting the financial pressures on Edmonton because of what he says is insufficient provincial funding and support.
A fire hydrant that appeared in an unusual and potentially dangerous spot because of road construction on 97 Street and 58 Avenue has been temporarily relocated by EPCOR to a safer area after a local resident raised concerns about its placement. The company said the hydrant will be permanently installed once construction is completed.
University of Alberta computing science student Kowen Woo is one of 20 recipients of the 2024 RBC Future Launch Indigenous Youth Scholarship, which provides $10,000 annually for up to four years. Woo's achievement highlights both his academic excellence and community involvement, including his participation in the UR2PhD program and volunteer work with First Peoples' House.
The Edmonton Oilers announced a series of key signings over the weekend, including forward Viktor Arvidsson on a two-year, $4 million contract, defenceman Josh Brown on a three-year, $1 million deal, and veteran forward Jeff Skinner to a one-year, $3 million contract after he was bought out by the Buffalo Sabres. Forward Mattias Janmark was re-signed to a three-year, $4.35 million deal, and the team also re-signed winger Connor Brown, veteran forward Corey Perry, and several other players, while adding goalie Collin Delia to their roster. The Oilers also placed goaltender Jack Campbell on waivers for a contract buyout.