Supply chain expansion project launched at YEG

A federal supply chain expansion project has been launched at the Edmonton International Airport.

According to the federal government, the "International Cargo Hub" will increase airfield infrastructure, expand Canada's supply chain capacity, and strengthen trade corridors. It will also build on new trade routes and boost the value and volume of goods exported and imported between Canada and international and domestic markets. 

"The International Cargo Hub is a generational investment in Canada's trade and logistics future," said Myron Keehn, President and CEO of the Edmonton International Airport. "It positions the Edmonton International Airport as a critical gateway for global commerce, strengthens supply chain resilience, and creates new opportunities for our industries to grow and compete internationally."

Keehn adds that the ICH will enhance the region's ability to support defence and security operations across western and northern regions, further cementing the Edmonton region as Western Canada's defence hub. He also notes that the project wouldn't have been possible without the new 65 Avenue interchange in Leduc, which was completed late last year.

"This wouldn't have been possible without the province, the City of Leduc, and ourselves coming together to build that piece of infrastructure you see behind you," said Keehn. "That opens up not only the land at the airport, but the land to the south of us, and the land to the east of us as well."

He says the "International Cargo Hub" will unlock 2,000 acres of land at YEG and connect the region with markets in the United States, Mexico, and various international countries. The first phase of the major project is slated to cost $160 million, split between the airport and the federal government. 

"In Leduc County, we're very excited about it, and how it's going to drive our economy forward," said Tanni Doblanko, Mayor of Leduc County. "We have experienced a significant amount of growth in warehousing, trucking, and logistics industries in the last four years. We know that is directly linked to the work that Myron and his team have done here at the airport."

Doblanko says Leduc County's assessment base has increased nearly 29 per cent in the last four years, mostly due to the relationships that they have built with the airport.