Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Grande Prairie Eclipses 50,000 Population Mark

It’s official! Grande Prairie has more than 50,000 residents.

Results of the Municipal Census undertaken in late spring show the City’s new population is 50,227, a 6.69 per cent increase over the 2006 Statistics Canada figure of 47,076. The City’s population has climbed by 12.53 per cent since the 2005 City enumeration, which recorded Grande Prairie with 44,631 residents.

Anticipating high growth had occurred, a census was held to help establish the City’s population. Grant dollars increase with a higher number of residents. As well, the City budget and business planning assumption requires accurate population information.

“We’re delighted to reach this important threshold,” says Mayor Wayne Ayling. “This information will help us address the service needs of our bourgeoning population. These increases confirming Grande Prairie’s status as a growing, vibrant Canadian city are also important to the business community and investors.  Fifty is a significant number as we celebrate our half-century mark as a City in 2008.”

Last year’s federal census established Grande Prairie as the second fastest growing city in Alberta, behind Airdrie. That head count indicated the City is the third fastest growing mid-sized urban centre in the nation.

A report providing detailed analysis of the census will be prepared in late September, highlighting more in-depth information such as gender, age and other demographic data on a neighbourhood basis. The 2007 Population Analysis Report will be available for purchase. Residents will be able to access a summary on the City’s website.