Major milestones reached for Coaldale in 2024: Van Rijn

Posted on January 18, 2024 by Sunny South News

By Heather Cameron
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Jack Van Rijn, Mayor for the Town of Coaldale, declared 2023 to be ‘a big year’ for the Town of Coaldale, as it was ‘marked by a number of significant achievements and exciting developments.’

“As Mayor for the Town of Coaldale, I am thrilled to reflect on what has been a truly transformative year for our community,” said Van Rijn.

Coaldale, Van Rijn says, began the year by moving their Town Administration into its new home at Civic Square that is nestled in the heart of downtown. 

“Civic Square is home to Coaldale’s new Town Office and Council Chambers, and is a testament to functionality, efficiency, and inclusivity,” said Van Rijn. “The Town Office boasts spacious and modern workspaces for the Town’s administrative staff, allowing them to better serve the needs of Coaldale’s residents.”

In a significant step enhancing the local economy and diversity, Van Rijn says, Coaldale also became part of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program. 

“This initiative has opened doors for skilled immigrants to contribute to our workforce, enriching our community’s cultural fabric and economic vitality,” said Van Rijn.

Van Rijn states that Coaldale added to its enrichment by approving a new residential neighbourhood along the northern boundary of Land-O-Lakes Golf and Country Club and that development is not just about building homes; it’s about creating a community where families can grow and thrive, and where Coaldale residents can truly age in place.

Additionally, Van Rijn says, the Town also received funding for an at-grade pedestrian crossing at the corner of Highway 3 and Land O’ Lakes Drive which, once built, will significantly enhance pedestrian safety and connectivity. Along with that, Van Rijn says, the Town received grant funding for the engineering and design of a new potable water reservoir and pump station in April 2023. This project, Van Rijn says, will not only help Coaldale meet its future growth horizon, but also help the regional economy by freeing up more potable water for McCain Foods, which in March of this year announced a $600 million expansion to its processing facility. 

Van Rijn says that the most exciting development for Coaldale this past year was the groundbreaking ceremony for the LINK Pathway. 

“This project, once completed, will connect Coaldale to Lethbridge, fostering greater regional integration and providing a beautiful, safe route for cyclists and pedestrians,” said Van Rijn. “Spanning approximately 15 kilometers, the LINK Pathway will weave through the scenic countryside, showcasing the natural beauty of the area.”

In addition to that, Van Rijn says, the children and families of Coaldale received a boost when BGC Lethbridge was named the childcare service provider in the new multi-use recreation centre, set to open in spring 2024. This facility, Van Rijn says, will be a hub of activity, promoting health, wellness, and community engagement.

Also in terms of wellness, Van Rijn says that Coaldale residents, local elected officials, community faith leaders, and several dignitaries from the Indigenous community came together in June to celebrate the grand opening of the Town’s new Civic Square building, (the Sun Lodge) and it was a proud moment and historic occasion for the Town. The town, Van Rijn said, also came together in August for a Summer Fest celebration where Coaldale-born Canadian music icon Ron Sakamoto served as the Honourary Parade Marshal for the Coaldale Summer Fest Candy Parade. 

The event, Van Rijn said, was wildly successful and not only brought the community together, but also showcased Coaldale’s vibrant spirit and cultural richness.

On top of all of that, Van Rijn says, the Town of Coaldale was named the host of the 2024 Southern Alberta Summer Games. That, Van Rijn states, is a testament to the community’s spirit and capabilities, as the event will bring athletes and visitors from across the region, and spotlight Coaldale as a center for sports and community spirit.

“As we look back on 2023, we are filled with pride and gratitude for what we have achieved together,” said Van Rijn. “The future looks bright for Coaldale, and we step into it with enthusiasm and a commitment to continue making our Town a wonderful place to live, work, and play. 2024 will also hold much in store, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us.”