Efforts to expand Altona's industrial park continue to progress.

A conceptual design of a 117 acre plot of land north of the current industrial park has been completed, and at the end of 2020, the Town finalized the acquisition of that land. The subdivision process is now underway.

"(We're) working with the provincial government on that. It's a lengthy process, it's a thorough process," said Mayor Al Friesen.

Most recently, Council partnered with local real estate firm, Choice Realty - Altona Division, to market the lots when they become available.

"Our Council was encouraged with the commitment of Altona's newest business, to dedicate staff to commercial development and its business success with some of the region's most recent developments,” said Friesen in a news release.

Dave Kasdorf, a broker with Choice Realty, added, “Choice Realty is excited to partner with the Town of Altona to help grow the community’s commercial and industrial sectors with Altona’s new industrial park. With our new office in Altona, our two local Realtors as well as Mark Hamm, who specializes in Commercial Real Estate, we look forward to serving the local businesses and entrepreneurs as we promote this project for the Town of Altona."

According to Friesen, the expectation is to have the Phase 1 serviced lots available in 2022. He noted, there will also be an opportunity for the public to review the plan, and for potential buyers to enter into pre-purchase discussions.

"There has been interest," he said. "Most of the business interest has been 'you need to move ahead', and so we are moving ahead, and this is part of that process."

The Mayor added, this expansion is a significant, long term step for the community and will help create a climate where business can grow.

"Economic growth is a key part of our strategic plan," noted Friesen. "Our current sold-out industrial park is a good thing, but it can potentially close doors to business expansion and ultimately, that hinders our growth."