Meta's $13B Data Centre, Rockslide Closes Climbing Area & Fringe Founder Tribute — Edmonton Wednesday

💼 Economy & Business

1. Meta announces $13 billion data centre in Alberta. The massive project will be in Sturgeon County, employing 3,000 during construction and 300 full-time staff afterwards. This investment marks one of the largest private sector commitments in Canadian history, promising significant economic benefits.

🌦️ Weather & Roads

1. Rockslide in Banff National Park closes climbing area. A substantial rockslide occurred in the Rundle Rock area, resulting in no injuries but leaving a debris-strewn path. This has led to the popular area being temporarily closed by Parks Canada.
2. B.C. wildfire closes Highway 1 and prompts evacuation alerts. The Brunswick Creek fire has expanded to 18 square kilometres, necessitating a closure between Boston Bar and Ainslie Road North, impacting travelers and residents.

🚨 Crime & Public Safety

1. Auditor General to complete health-contract probe by year-end. Alberta's auditor general Phil Peters announced the completion timeline for the ongoing investigation into health-care contracting, highlighting continued scrutiny on Premier Danielle Smith’s government.
2. Accused in Chinatown killings testifies in Edmonton trial. Justin Bone claimed he does not remember the alleged murders he is charged with, painting a picture of a troubling period prior to his arrest. The trial continues as the community seeks answers.

🎨 Community & Culture

1. Edmonton theatre community remembers Brian Paisley. The local arts scene pays tribute to the late Fringe Festival founder, highlighting his lasting impact on Edmonton’s cultural landscape.

🏈 Sports

1. Elks and Redblacks aim for improved running games. Ahead of Thursday's match, both teams seek to bolster their ground games following recent losses. The Elks hope to recover from a minimal running effort against the B.C. Lions.

📰 Also Today

• Family of Edmonton woman shot by Calgary police speaks out. They reveal her mental health struggles before the incident.
• Edmonton police impound lot expands. 150 new spaces added for seized and abandoned vehicles.
• Calgary Stampeders pursue third straight win. They face the Montreal Alouettes this Saturday.
• Reviving past pipeline projects discussed. Various defunct proposals see newfound interest.
• Albertans face rebate portal challenges. Continued issues accessing financial rebates.
• Carney comments on NATO amidst Iran strikes. Discusses geopolitical ramifications.
• Extreme weather impacts on Canadian costs. Weather spikes living expenses.
• Alberta doctor receives ambulance bill after saving life. Unexpected expense after heroic CPR act.
• Pacific Mall rezoning approved in Edmonton. Allows mid to high-rise mixed-use development.
• Edmonton retains parking with new bike lanes. Council balances parking needs with bike infrastructure.