Alberta is investing 0,000 in a new Western Canada Economic Corridor Project aimed at strengthening transportation networks, improving supply chains and expanding trade opportunities across Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest.

The announcement came during the 35th Annual Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) Summit, hosted in Edmonton, where government, Indigenous, municipal and industry leaders from Canada and the United States gathered to discuss transportation, trade, economic development and regional collaboration.

Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr attended the summit in his role as Alberta’s Parliamentary Secretary for Transportation and Strategic Development.

Focus on trade and transportation

A key theme throughout the conference was the importance of reliable transportation infrastructure and resilient supply chains to support economic growth across North America.

Alberta’s investment will support PNWER’s Western Canada Economic Corridor Project, which will identify opportunities to improve the movement of goods, strengthen transportation networks and expand export opportunities throughout Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest.

Delegates also reaffirmed the importance of maintaining stable cross-border trade through the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), emphasizing its role in supporting businesses, workers and investment on both sides of the border.

Benefits for northeastern Alberta

For northeastern Alberta, improved transportation corridors could have benefits beyond trade.

Cyr said stronger highway, rail and trade connections help support key regional industries, including agriculture, forestry and energy, while also enhancing military readiness as Cold Lake continues preparing for the arrival of the F-35 fighter fleet.

“As Alberta’s Military Liaison, I was encouraged to see the growing recognition that transportation infrastructure is also critical to continental security and military readiness,” Cyr said.

He added that investments in transportation networks can strengthen both economic development and national defence.

Collaboration across North America

The summit brought together elected officials, business leaders, Indigenous representatives and community organizations from jurisdictions throughout the Pacific Northwest to discuss shared priorities and strengthen relationships.

Premier Danielle Smith addressed delegates during the conference, outlining Alberta’s vision for economic growth and cooperation with North American trading partners.

Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen also highlighted Alberta’s ongoing work to strengthen strategic transportation corridors across the province.

New leadership announced

The conference concluded with the election of Representative Britt Raybould as PNWER president.

Parliamentary Secretary Paul Choi was elected First Canadian Vice President, while MLA Brandon Lunty became Second Canadian Vice President.

Cyr also recognized Parliamentary Secretary Shane Getson for his leadership during his term as PNWER Canada President and PNWER Vice President.

Cold Lake Coun. Chris Vining attended the summit, representing the municipality and advocating for the region during discussions with leaders from across North America.

Cyr said the partnerships strengthened during the conference will help shape future discussions around transportation, trade and economic development, while creating opportunities for Alberta communities to benefit from stronger regional and international connections.