Prairie Economic Gateway advances with important next steps
Monday, March 24, 2025
The Prairie Economic Gateway initiative continues to gain momentum as The City of Calgary and Rocky View County take critical steps toward making the vision a reality.
Following the approval of a historic agreement in February, the municipalities have initiated discussions with the provincial and federal governments, moved towards finalizing the terms of reference for the project’s Oversight Committee, and signed an early-stage Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) to explore an investment partnership.
The proposed rail-served industrial hub along the shared border in southeast Calgary is projected to generate over $7 billion in economic activity and create more than 30,000 jobs in the region across the development phase alone. By leveraging existing transportation networks, the project aims to reinforce the region’s position as a leading inland port, strengthen supply chains, drive interprovincial and international trade, and support advancing a national trade strategy.
“The Calgary Region received another signal of support with the Canada Infrastructure Bank signing a memorandum of understanding with The City of Calgary and Rocky View County to advance work on Prairie Economic Gateway,” says Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “This transformative initiative will further our position as Canada’s strongest inland port, modernize our trade and transportation networks, and create access to new markets.”
The Prairie Economic Gateway’s working group will conduct additional feasibility assessments to complete the evaluation of the project’s technical and financial viability as a potential candidate for future financial support.
“The Prairie Economic Gateway is a leading example of regional collaboration, creating jobs and unlocking economic opportunities for local industry and investors. In partnership with the City of Calgary, this initiative focuses on removing impediments to growth by coordinating infrastructure development, expanding markets, and diversifying the regional economy,” says Rocky View County Reeve Crystal Kissel. “Partnering with the Canada Infrastructure Bank further enhances our shared commitment to positioning our region for long-term success in both national and global markets."
Immediate next steps include further collaboration with the primary developer [Shepard Development Corporation], land use planning, and securing investment from public and private sector partners. The Prairie Economic Gateway will play a pivotal role in driving sustainable industrial growth, enhancing infrastructure, and improving regional supply chain resilience for years to come.
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