Fort McMurray 468 First Nation opens new $30M community centre

A stunning new $30 million community centre is open in northern Alberta where members of the Fort McMurray 468 First Nation will gather for meetings, recreation and various events.

Nikinan, which means "our place" in Cree, is located at Indian Beach on the shore of Gregoire Lake, about 30 kilometres south of Fort McMurray.

"It's one of the most beautiful things that I've been part of," said Samantha Whalen, a councillor with the First Nation. 

"And it'll stand here and it'll grow with the community as we develop more infrastructure.

"Fort McMurray First Nation has never taken on a project of this magnitude in its history."

The facility officially opened in early July.

The centre has a commercial kitchen, spaces for elders and youth, and a gym with an indoor court that also doubles as a gathering space for occasions such as nation's meetings. 

"It's more of a welcoming space to everybody. It accommodates everybody from every age group," said Neil Cheecham, the First Nation's chief. 

Nikinan's design has been influenced by various buildings, Whalen said. 

"This building actually encompasses many, many buildings that we visited throughout the development," she said.  

The building was designed by Workun Garrick and built by JEN COL Construction. Both are Alberta-based firms.

"We're incredibly proud to have been part of something truly meaningful," the construction company posted to social media.

"We're honoured to have played a role in creating a space where traditions are celebrated, stories are shared and futures are shaped."

The majority of the cost was self-funded by the nation, Whalen said. 

Cheecham said the project's successful completion can make new builds in the community easier. 

"It just opened the door to so much more, and I don't think there would be such a push back as there was before," Cheecham said.  

He said the project demonstrated that community members can place their trust in the First Nation's leadership when it comes to the community's future. 

While housing remains a priority for the First Nation, there should also be services supporting their residents, Whalen said. 

"It's a balancing act," she said.