Friday, March 21, 2025
The City of Calgary and Rocky View County have approved the Prairie Economic Gateway agreement, a partnership projected to generate over $7 billion in economic activity and create more than 30,000 jobs across the region over the next 10 to 12 years. This milestone marks a significant step forward in regional collaboration, reinforcing the region’s position as an inland port and a key driver of national and international trade.
Strategically located adjacent to Calgary’s eastern limits, the proposed inland port will leverage the region’s existing Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) rail network to enable greater interprovincial trade and access to global markets while unlocking new opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, processing and distribution. By improving supply chain efficiency and reducing reliance on seaports, the Prairie Economic Gateway will enhance trade resilience in the region and mitigate economic disruptions.
“Three years ago, I envisioned a bold new future for Calgary, where our city could be home to the strongest inland port in North America,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “Today, I am proud to say we are turning that vision into reality. Prairie Economic Gateway is not just a project. It is a promise of prosperity, productivity and opportunity that will transform our region for future generations.”
The agreement formalizes almost two years of collaboration between the municipalities, paving the way for sustainable industrial growth, efficient infrastructure development and improved local supply chains. Recognizing that Calgary is Canada’s fastest-growing metropolitan area and will need more than 110,000 new jobs in the next five years, the Prairie Economic Gateway highlights the critical importance of investing in essential infrastructure.
“The Prairie Economic Gateway is a leading example of what can be achieved when municipalities work together to unlock the industry’s potential to create jobs and generate prosperity,” says Rocky View County Reeve Crystal Kissel. “In collaboration with the City of Calgary, this partnership focuses on removing impediments to growth by coordinating infrastructure development, expanding markets and diversifying the regional economy.”
This approval enables The City of Calgary and Rocky View County to take necessary next steps in securing funding from other orders of government and private sector partners. By advancing key infrastructure projects, including roads, water systems and transit, this agreement lays the foundation for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity in the region.
“The Prairie Economic Gateway is a game-changer for Alberta’s transportation network and economic corridors. This agreement strengthens our province’s role as a key logistics and distribution hub, ensuring businesses have the infrastructure they need to move goods efficiently across Canada and to global markets. By investing in critical transportation links, we are driving economic growth, creating thousands of jobs, and strengthening Alberta’s economy,” said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors.
Featured image: (City of Calgary)
