Edmonton is considering a new incentive program to boost affordable student housing in its downtown core, offering grants of up to $30,000 per new student unit. Funded by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's Housing Accelerator Fund, the program aims to create about 500 new units by November 2026, pending Council approval. This initiative targets the housing shortage and high rental costs faced by students. Key areas identified for development include neighbourhoods near Norquest College and MacEwan University, which together bring tens of thousands of students into downtown daily. Advocates believe that increasing student housing will help revitalize downtown by drawing new retail and enhancing the local community. If approved, this could be the first program in Canada focused specifically on addressing the student housing gap.
Speaking of housing, a 27-storey residential tower called Windsor Heights has been proposed for the Windsor Park neighbourhood near the University of Alberta. But, the development has sparked concerns among local residents. It would include 285 housing units, 250 underground parking stalls, and up to 24,000 square feet of retail space, replacing an existing strip mall. Residents at a recent open house raised concerns about the building’s height, the potential loss of local amenities, increased traffic, parking shortages, and the shadow the tower could cast on surrounding homes. The developer says the building will offer a range of unit sizes and more walkable housing options, and they plan to include similar retail services in the new design. Councillor Michael Janz acknowledged the need for housing in the area but emphasized that community concerns must be considered. The rezoning application will face a public hearing on August 18th.
In 2024, Edmonton transit peace officers issued 5,721 trespassing tickets, with 90% going to individuals with no fixed address, sparking concerns from housing and legal advocates. Most of these tickets were given during the coldest months, as people without shelter turned to transit stations for warmth. Lawyers and advocates argue this disproportionately penalizes unhoused individuals, many of whom cannot pay the $600 fines, potentially leading to court summons. While the City says that not all people without a listed address are homeless, critics maintain the data still reflects the criminalization of poverty. The estimated value of these tickets exceeds $3 million, though it’s unclear how much has been collected. City Council has reallocated $5 million to increase transit security, but some are calling for a more compassionate approach, including progressive fines based on income and better access to housing and support services.
Edmonton’s Food Bank has seen a 42% increase in hamper requests since 2022, now serving around 44,000 people per month, nearly double the number during the pandemic. Rising costs, such as an $11,000 weekly egg bill, are stretching the organization’s budget. More first-time users and signs of deepening poverty are evident in the city. Non-perishable food and monetary donations are urgently needed. The Food Bank says that, while the food bank is doing its best, long-term solutions must come from government action.
Edmonton International Airport has opened a safe room to support victims of human trafficking and domestic violence, providing a secure space for those in crisis. This initiative, one of only two such spaces at Canadian airports, aims to offer comfort and connect victims with law enforcement and support agencies. The airport is partnered with #NotInMyCity, an organization focused on raising awareness and preventing sexual exploitation and trafficking. The safe room, named Kîsê Watotâtôwin to honour Indigenous victims disproportionately targeted, includes amenities like beds, food, and internet access. Airport staff receive specialized training to recognize trafficking indicators and respond discreetly to protect victims without alerting traffickers. Edmonton’s police and support agencies actively work to combat trafficking, with the airport playing a crucial role as a transit point where victims may pass through.
