The numbers may not show it, but the construction of several new developments in Westlock is leading to a sense of optimism for the town’s future.
The Westlock Collision Centre recently opened the doors of its new building along Highway 18, while The Brick is building its own new store just across the highway. Groundwork for the new Dairy Queen is also underway on Highway 44 and of course, the recent approval of Westgate Developments and Greenfield Estates is giving officials and residents a positive outlook on the future of the town, after several years of dealing with a stagnant economy.
“Optimistic. That’s been the general sense that we’re even getting from the community as we’re starting to see some new builds,” said interim CAO Simone Wiley, who is also the town’s director of development services.
“The stats are very similar to what we saw in 2018. We’re not any higher in terms of statistics, but dollar investment into the community is definitely higher. The numbers don’t really reflect what’s happening.”
The Brick owner and manager James Lawlor said he expects to be able to move into the new 7,000 sq. ft. building in about three months time. In the meantime, the business is operating out of its old location on Main Street after clearing out of the Capri Mall several months ago.
“We’re shooting for a late October soft opening and Nov. 1 as our hard line open date,” he said. “The mall location was too big for us, so we spaced out everything and it had a very warehouse look, but the new store will be merchandised by the actual Brick corporate team, which will be nice.
“Our mortgage costs are going to be significantly cheaper than if we were paying rent.”
The construction of the new Dairy Queen is also coming along quite well, said owner David Truckey, as crews are laying the groundwork for the restaurant in between bouts of rain.
“Construction is proceeding along well, obviously the rain has been a bit of an issue, but we’ve only had two or three days when the construction was actually stopped because of the rain,” said Truckey. “They’re generally on schedule.”
He commended local contractors Eagle Excavating for going above and beyond to keep the build on track.
Truckey said he is expecting the building to reach substantial completion by the end of October, and to open its doors in November.
“We’re super excited and we’re looking forward to having some hiring days for some full and part-time employees coming up in the early fall,” he said.
Westgate recently gave those interested in their new developments a chance to have a look at the company’s plans to build a commercial area south of the Westlock Healthcare Centre and a residential subdivision east of the Rotary Spirit Centre.
The company held at an Open House event for interested and curious residents July 19-21 at the Westlock Inn.
“Overall they felt it was a success. There was lots of interest in pre-sales and they’re hoping to have some agreements very shortly. There was lots of interest. It was very positive,” said Wiley.
