In an attempt to improve regional relations and encourage economic development, Edmonton will be joining Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association (AIHA).
The Association is planning for a 533-square-kilometer sector of land northeast of Edmonton to be linked to the oilsands by building upgraders and creating other new projects.
Executive Director Neil Shelly said Thursday that AIHA has casually been working with Edmonton for the last 18 months as the city looked at plans for a new industrial area in the northeast Horse Hills district.
Shelley also stated that the Horse Hills project would serve as a refining operation for chemicals produced in the area and make them into various other products, many being more consumer friendly.
Despite animosities in the past, Edmonton will now be joining Strathcona, Sturgeon, Lamont counties and the City of Fort Saskatchewan in an effort to create what Shelley called a "chemical cluster" of local areas porducing chemicals.
Shelley also stated that planning may include the development of pipeline corridors and transportation, vital to the operation
The co-operation of all municiplaities in the area will be a large step in progress for the project. Deputy city manager Joyce Tustian stated that all communities working together is critical when trying to achieve the same international investment.
A ceremony will be held today to present the group’s newest member.
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