Sylvan Lake’s population is growing at a rapid pace.
This year the town eclipsed 13,000 people, which is 1,800 more than the last municipal census in 2008. Most of them are younger than 35. Although some of the residents are just people looking to get away from the hustle-and-bustle of city life, a larger number of people are deciding to live there all year round.
But permanent residents need permanent facilities, and Sylvan Lake still doesn’t have access to urgent care. If someone has a medical emergency, they need to travel 25 kilometres to the closest hospital in Red Deer.
“Urgent care is a big issue here in Sylvan Lake,” said Joanne Gaudet, a communications officer for Sylvan Lake. “There is a big push to obtain a facility with extended lab and X-ray services.”
Gaudet said most of the town’s other needs are met, and its central location allows people to quickly travel to surrounding areas if they need something the town can’t provide.
Despite its growing population, Gaudet says the people of Sylvan Lake are not looking to become a city anytime soon.
“I think they are quite happy with having the beach town feel; and the lakeside, full-service, town feeling that we currently offer,” she said. “I think that is one of the draws for young families when they are looking to relocate to a community.”
Gaudet seems to have hit the nail right on the head.
“It is a great family oriented place,” said Kyle Phillips, who lives in Sylvan Lake with his wife and two children. Kyle and his wife Krysti have lived in Sylvan Lake for six years, and they are both 28-years-old.
With files from Shannon Greer
“There are a lot of other young families here,” he said. “I like the small town feel.”
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