In a significant advancement for regional development, Calgary and Rockyview County have formalised a partnership aimed at expediting the Prairie Economic Gateway, a multi-billion-pound logistics hub intended for the southeast outskirts of Calgary. The memorandum of understanding, announced on Tuesday, involves collaboration with the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) to facilitate a swift transition from planning to construction at the proposed site.
A Vision for an Inland Port
The Prairie Economic Gateway is envisioned to occupy 1,300 acres along 114 Avenue S.E. It is part of a broader regional initiative between the city and Rockyview County that promises to transform the area into one of Canada’s largest centres for trade, logistics, and manufacturing, with the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) rail network as its backbone.
Oyin Shyllon, project manager for the Gateway, emphasised the importance of the agreement with the CIB, stating it is pivotal in actualising the project. “This is about moving from regional potential into coordinated action,” he remarked, underlining the momentum it brings to Calgary’s economic outlook.
Evaluating Infrastructure Needs
The signed agreement lays the groundwork for assessing the commercial, technical, and financial feasibility of essential infrastructure required for future development. Ben Manshanden, Rockyview County’s intergovernmental services and economic development manager, described the CIB’s expertise as “the gold standard of due diligence,” instilling confidence among all stakeholders to proceed with the project.
This new memorandum follows a previous agreement made in early 2025, which explored the possibility of the CIB’s involvement in the initiative. Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas acknowledged the significance of this latest agreement, stating, “It is an important step toward finalising the infrastructure investments needed to unlock new trade, logistics, and industrial development, create jobs and strengthen Calgary’s competitiveness.”
Infrastructure Plans and Economic Impact
The planned infrastructure, projected to be developed between now and 2031, includes upgrades to water and wastewater systems, stormwater management, road enhancements, and emergency response preparations. Notably, initial projects include a stormwater trunk expected to be operational by 2028 and a 10.6-kilometre feeder main set for completion in 2029. However, timelines for road improvements along 114 Avenue and Glenmore Trail remain to be confirmed.
Municipal taxpayers will likely bear part of the costs associated with these off-site projects, although specific figures will not be available until November, when city council reviews the upcoming four-year budget. City estimates suggest that the Prairie Economic Gateway could generate over £7 billion in economic activity and create more than 30,000 jobs in the Calgary region over the next decade to twelve years.
“The return on public investment is substantial,” Shyllon added, highlighting that for every pound invested, an estimated £8.90 in private investment could be generated. “Without the major road network and essential water infrastructure, those developments can’t happen,” he stated.
Addressing Supply Chain Challenges
The announcement of this memorandum has been met with enthusiasm from the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, who view the logistics hub as a crucial solution to alleviating existing supply chain bottlenecks. Ruhee Ismail-Teja from the Chamber noted that nearly 40 per cent of member businesses have faced disruptions, with one in six indicating these issues have hindered their growth.
“Initially, we thought the supply chain challenges stemming from the pandemic would be short-lived, but they have proven to be a persistent issue,” she said. “Having a real plan to address the structural problems will help us move forward.”
The initial phase of the Prairie Economic Gateway is anticipated to commence operations by 2031, with groundwork expected to begin as early as next year. The subsequent stages of the project will depend on market demand.
Why it Matters
The establishment of the Prairie Economic Gateway represents a transformative opportunity for Calgary and Rockyview County, not only enhancing their economic landscape but also fostering regional collaboration. By addressing critical infrastructure needs and supply chain inefficiencies, this initiative promises to unlock substantial economic potential, create thousands of jobs, and solidify Calgary’s position as a competitive player in the logistics and trade sectors.
