New inland port east of Calgary to expand logistics and distribution

The City of Calgary and Rocky View County have approved the Prairie Economic Gateway agreement, a partnership expected to generate more than $7 billion in economic activity and create over 30,000 jobs in the next decade.

The agreement paves the way for the development of an inland port east of Calgary, leveraging the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) rail network to improve trade access and supply chain efficiency. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on seaports and expand opportunities in manufacturing, logistics and distribution.

“Three years ago, I envisioned a bold new future for Calgary, where our city could be home to the strongest inland port in North America,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “Today, I am proud to say we are turning that vision into reality.”

The municipalities have collaborated for nearly two years on the initiative, which is designed to support Calgary’s rapid growth and infrastructure needs. Rocky View County Reeve Crystal Kissel said the agreement demonstrates the benefits of inter-municipal cooperation.

“The Prairie Economic Gateway is a leading example of what can be achieved when municipalities work together to unlock the industry’s potential to create jobs and generate prosperity,” said Kissel.

Provincial ministers also lauded the deal, with Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver calling it a “shared vision” that will create stronger communities. Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade Matt Jones said it would bolster Alberta’s economic competitiveness, while Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen described it as a “game-changer” for the province’s logistics sector.

With the agreement finalized, Calgary and Rocky View County will focus on securing government and private-sector funding, planning infrastructure projects and aligning land use to bring the initiative to fruition.