jasonwoodhead23, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
FORT McMURRAY — The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is extending its Downtown Revitalization Incentives Program as it looks to continue supporting redevelopment projects in the city’s core.
Council approved the extension of Phase 3 of the program at its March 24 meeting, allowing applications to remain open until the remaining $1.7 million in funding has been fully committed.
Municipal officials say the extension is intended to ensure available funding reaches projects ready to move forward, while maintaining momentum on efforts to revitalize downtown Fort McMurray.
The program offers four grant streams to support businesses, commercial property owners and community organizations in upgrading buildings and surrounding spaces. Additional funding is also available for accessibility improvements and crime prevention measures aimed at creating a more inclusive and safer downtown.
As part of the extension, the municipality has introduced minor policy updates.
Projects receiving funding from other municipal programs for the same scope of work will no longer be eligible, a change officials say is designed to prevent duplication of public funding.
The municipality is also tightening timelines for applicants. Program staff can now close or withdraw applications after four weeks without communication, a move aimed at ensuring funds are directed toward active projects.
Applicants are required to submit detailed project estimates as part of the process, including itemized costs for materials, labour and associated expenses, along with contractor information and proof of licensing.
The program requires at least two independent estimates for each project, with applicants given 90 days to provide pricing after initial approval. Officials say the detailed requirements are intended to ensure transparency, fairness and accurate use of public funds.
Businesses and organizations are encouraged to plan projects carefully, including allowing time to gather estimates, confirming contractor credentials and ensuring proposals clearly outline all aspects of the work.
The municipality says the program is designed to support economic activity, improve the appearance and functionality of downtown spaces and attract investment to the area.
Officials say by extending the program and refining its requirements, the municipality hopes to encourage more shovel-ready projects and continue building a more vibrant and resilient downtown core.
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