Headlines: May 12, 2026

· The Pulse
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  • The western portion of Whitemud Drive in Edmonton is slated for major upgrades with a $27.9 million investment shared equally by the province, the city, and Enoch Cree Nation. The project will expand the freeway from one to four lanes between Lewis Estates Boulevard and 231 Street, and add intersections, traffic signals, and street lights. Enoch Cree Nation Chief Cody Thomas said the historic collaboration will improve safety and better connectivity for commuters from Edmonton, Spruce Grove, and Stony Plain.
  • The Edmonton Queen riverboat experienced mechanical issues on May 11, leaving more than 200 passengers stranded during a Mother's Day cruise. The port hydraulic pump failure hindered the port-side paddlewheel, prompting the captain to beach the vessel. Fire crews arrived around 4:22pm to assist, and passengers were safely evacuated by 7:30pm. No injuries were reported. The operator plans to repair the issue by its next event. The riverboat had a similar problem in July 2019 that also required evacuation.
  • The City of Edmonton has completed the installation of bridge girders for the Capital Line South LRT extension, a significant milestone in the project's progress. The installation took place over five days starting April 30, using heavy cranes to place 12 girders.
  • Edmonton will host the Canada-Wide Science Fair from May 13 to 20, welcoming more than 500 of the nation's top young scientists to compete and present their innovative projects. Hosted at the Edmonton Convention Centre, the event aims to inspire future generations in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
  • The Edmonton Police Service has charged six men with 33 counts of vehicle fraud following an investigation into an unusual scheme, allegedly using aggressive tactics during vehicle purchases made through online platforms. Police said they distracted sellers and tampered with vehicles to claim damages, ultimately coercing the sale at reduced prices.
  • NAIT in Edmonton will soon begin construction on a new advanced skills centre, bolstered by a $380 million commitment from the Alberta government. The centre aims to enhance students' practical skills in technology and trades, addressing the growing demand for skilled workers in the region.
  • Alberta's information and privacy commissioner has raised concerns about Bill 31, which allows Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis to sell personal customer data from its Play Alberta platform. The legislation bypasses the Protection of Privacy Act prohibition on selling personal data, which privacy commissioner Diane McLeod said sets a dangerous precedent. The province said customers can opt out before any data is sold. Meanwhile, 49 companies are interested in Alberta's online gambling market, which opens to private firms in July.
  • A wildfire evacuation order was issued for Woodlands County, northwest of Edmonton, on May 11, due to an escalating wildfire threat. The area affected includes several communities, leading to fears of property and environmental damage. Residents are instructed to evacuate immediately as local officials coordinate relief efforts.
  • The Edmonton Elks have signed defensive backs Benjamin Sangmuah and Jaxxon Brashear. Sangmuah, a second-round pick from the University of British Columbia, recorded 162 tackles and five interceptions in 41 games. He recently attracted attention from the NFL, securing a mini-camp invite from the Indianapolis Colts. Brashear, from the University of Ottawa, tallied 87 tackles and two interceptions in 29 games. The Edmonton Elks' 2026 Training Camp began May 10 at Clarke Stadium.