LAKELAND - Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr did not get the “brand-new, shiny Highway 28” he asked Santa for this year, but he did get a $5-million comprehensive design and engineering review, and he’s feeling good about the “substantial progress” made on the Lakeland’s major artery in 2024, which could include twinning, adding passing lanes and improving intersection safety.
Responding to questions about the accomplishments in the legislature and in the community in 2024, Cyr highlighted the impact of the updated Alberta Bill of Rights, which strengthened the language around personal autonomy regarding vaccines; gave landowners greater say over how their land is used; and reaffirmed the right of Albertans to possess firearms in accordance with the law – a law that remains under federal jurisdiction.
“These changes send a clear message - Alberta values its citizens' freedoms and is committed to defending them,” said Cyr.
In the Lakeland, Cyr highlighted upwards of $11-million worth of grants and investments made in the region by the province last year, including renovations to the St. Paul Healthcare Centre’s Emergency Department, the expansion of spaces for nursing students at Portage College, a partnership with the Cold Lake Regional Utilities Commission’s Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the work on Highway 28.
“These accomplishments are a testament to the collaborative efforts of our community and the province, setting the stage for an even brighter future,” said Cyr
Looking forward to 2025, Cyr said he thinks it looks like an “incredibly promising” year, especially for the energy sector with the incoming Trump and possibly outgoing Trudeau administrations.
“I am optimistic that Alberta’s energy sector will see unprecedented growth. The Canadian Association of Energy Contractors’ prediction of increased well drilling aligns perfectly with this optimism, promising more jobs and a higher standard of living for our residents,” said Cyr.
Highway 28 and healthcare will both continue to be priorities, with a two-lane roundabout planned at Highway 855, 14 intersection improvements, new rest areas, and enhancements to dangerous curves to support increased traffic and economic development.
In healthcare, Cyr expects to see further investment in long-term care spaces and support for local nursing programs.
“Expanding healthcare access remains a top priority, with plans to deliver the long-awaited upgrades to St. Paul’s emergency department and increase long-term care spaces in the constituency. Additionally, securing an MRI machine for Cold Lake is a significant goal to improve local diagnostic capabilities,” said Cyr.
According to Cyr, tourism and local business development are crucial to the vision for 2025. Further development of Kinosoo Ridge and the Iron Horse Trail “will play a vital role in promoting the region’s unique attractions and stimulating economic growth.”
Another expected driver of economic growth will be the planned infrastructure improvements at 4 Wing Cold Lake.
“The announcement of F-35 jets coming to 4 Wing Cold Lake marked a massive win for our region, bringing substantial federal investment and solidifying Cold Lake's role as a critical defense hub. These initiatives, paired with Alberta’s focus on innovative energy solutions and rural crime reduction programs, set the stage for an exciting year,” said Cyr.
Asked what his New Year’s Resolution is, Cyr said he intends to set aside more time for his wife and daughters.
“While I’m proud of everything I accomplished, I’ve realized the importance of balancing work with family. My wife and daughters have been my greatest support and my rock through it all, and I owe it to them to be present as a husband and father. This year, I’m committed to carving out that time and cherishing it,” said Cyr.
