Chamber Statement, Municipal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Edmonton, AB – May 22, 2025 – The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce applauds City Council for advancing the Downtown Action Plan—a major step toward making Edmonton’s core a better place to live, work, invest, and do business. This $553 million plan reflects the ideas and input of our business community and responds to what we’ve been calling for: real action to bring people and investment back downtown. 

“This plan is about more than revitalizing downtown—it’s about unlocking economic growth for our entire city,” said Doug Griffiths, President & CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. “When downtown is strong, investment follows. Businesses grow. Jobs are created. Confidence returns. City Council’s decision yesterday sends a clear message to investors and entrepreneurs: Edmonton is open for business.” 

Downtown is home to 69,000 jobs, 1,600 businesses, 12,000 residents, and tens of thousands of students. Vacancy rates are severly lagging with office rates at 21% and retail at 33%. Foot traffic is down. And many local businesses are hanging on by a thread. Local businesses rely on a busy, welcoming downtown to survive. Without action, more businesses may close, and Edmonton’s economy could suffer. That’s why the Chamber supports this plan—and why we believe it must be fully funded.

One part of the plan the Chamber is especially excited about is the creation of a Downtown Leadership Group. This group will make sure the work gets done, progress is tracked, and businesses and government are all working together. 

“As the voice of the business community, the Edmonton Chamber understands that a thriving downtown is essential to sustained economic growth,” said Heather Thomson, Vice President, Economy and Engagement. “This plan provides the policy direction and investment certainty needed to restore economic activity in the core. A strong downtown generates multiplier effects across sectors—from real estate and retail to innovation and talent attraction. It’s not just a geographic centre—it’s an economic catalyst.” 

City Council will hold a public hearing in late June before providing final approval for investments in Edmonton’s downtown core. We’re encouraging our members to attend and speak in support of this important initiative to revitalize Edmonton’s core. To learn more about how to speak at Council, please click here. If you are a member, and need support from the Chamber to develop your speaking notes, please reach out to policy@edmontonchamber.com.  

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