I hope you’re enjoying the warmer weather and the renewed energy returning to our city. It’s been a busy few months at City Hall and resiliency has been a key theme in our discussions.

At Council, we’ve been talking a lot about the impacts of tariffs on Edmonton. We've heard about the robust steps staff are taking to reduce risks for the City, and how we’re working with other partners to support businesses and residents in these uncertain times. While tariffs bring challenges, they also highlight the strength of our local economy and the incredible businesses in our region. By working together, we’ll navigate these changes and emerge even stronger. One simple way we can all contribute is by shopping local and supporting Edmonton businesses. We are lucky to have so many great ones in the area!

At the Emergency Advisory Committee, we also had a good discussion about the City’s emergency preparedness plans. We learned about the City’s all-hazards approach to emergency planning that can help us face whatever challenges come our way. I encouraged City staff to connect with community leagues to explore how we can take a more local approach to emergency preparedness. I look forward to more conversations - a resilient city starts with resilient neighbourhoods!

Council also received an update on bridge construction in the downtown. Thanks to careful phasing by City staff, there will not be full closures of multiple bridges at the same time. The only full closure will be the Wellington Bridge on 102nd Avenue, beginning at the end of this year. We’re also working to accelerate LRT construction this year. There will be periods of major disruption - like the closure of the intersection at 124th Street and 104th Avenue for eight weeks - but it will mean road construction is done months ahead of the previous schedule. Staff will also be closely coordinating other construction projects in the core to reduce overlapping disruptions. While not without its short-term frustrations, these important investments will support the long-term resilience of our community. 

I hope you all continue to connect with the many City services there to support you. From libraries, to rec centres, to transit, to grant opportunities, we are working to build on the strength of our communities. Please continue to reach out to my office to let us know how we can help, and be sure to say hello if we cross paths!

Anne Stevenson, City Councillor for Ward O-day’min
Email: anne.stevenson@edmonton.ca
Phone: 780-496-8333