Airdrie may benefit from the Alberta government’s recently announced Local Growth and Sustainability Grant (LGSG) to support fast-growing communities.
With $60 million available over the next three years, the grant targets municipalities facing infrastructure challenges due to rapid population growth, economic development opportunities, and emergent community needs.
The LGSG's growth component, which provides the majority of funding, could assist Airdrie in addressing pressures related to population growth, such as increasing the supply of affordable housing and attracting commercial or industrial developments that would create permanent jobs. Additionally, the funding can be used for infrastructure improvements needed to support growing tourism.
"We have heard clearly from our municipal partners that population growth and expanding industrial and commercial activity, though good for local economies, are also putting significant pressure on public infrastructure in some Alberta communities," said Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs.
Funding for approved projects will be cost-shared, requiring local governments to contribute at least 50 per cent of the project’s costs. The minimum project cost to qualify for the LGSG is $1 million, with no maximum project limit.
Municipalities like Airdrie can also apply for up to 30 per cent of other provincial grant programs, such as the Local Government Fiscal Framework Capital program or the Canada Community-Building Fund, to help cover costs.
With a population size within the LGSG’s eligibility range of 10,000 to 200,000 residents, Airdrie can submit one application under the grant’s growth component. This application could focus on essential infrastructure projects, such as expanding roadways or upgrading water treatment systems to accommodate the city’s rapid expansion.
Airdrie could also partner with neighbouring municipalities on projects that benefit the broader region as long as one of the municipalities has a population of at least 10,000 people.
Applications for the grant close on November 29 and successful applicants will be announced in early 2025. If selected, Airdrie could receive funding as early as 2024, with continued payments spread over three years to complete the project.
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