- Edmonton's Lewis Farms Recreation Centre project could cost nearly $32 million more than its original $311 million estimate, now projected at about $343 million. The City of Edmonton began planning for the facility in 2005. Construction started in 2023, with the project already scaled back to remove amenities like a bouldering wall and to shrink the pool. City councillors are set to debate the cost increase on April 28, with construction scheduled to finish in 2027 and opening slated for fall 2028.
- Edmonton Coun. Jon Morgan and Coun. Erin Rutherford say Lucy the Elephant should remain at the Edmonton Valley Zoo after consulting with experts and staff. In a joint statement, they concluded relocating the 50-year-old elephant would pose serious health risks, with specialists warning she could die in transit. While acknowledging longstanding concerns about her isolation and care, they said it is now too late to move her safely. The pair are calling for continued investment in her care and said her case should guide future zoo standards.
- The City of Edmonton will resume work on Stage 2 of the 95 Avenue Renewal project from 163 Street to 170 Street starting the week of April 20. Completion is anticipated in fall 2026. This stage involves road rehabilitation, replacing sidewalks, curbs, and streetlights, and adding missing sidewalk links. Key changes include removing the service road on the south side between 165 Street and 170 Street for a shared pathway, installing on-street parking bays, and upgrading bus stops. Motorists and pedestrians should anticipate traffic disruptions, detours, and temporary ETS bus stop closures, with phased closures of 167 Street and 165 Street.
- NHL playoffs frenzy has descended on Edmonton once again as the Edmonton Oilers prepare to begin Round 1 against the Anaheim Ducks on April 20. Watch parties at ICE District and at nearby bars and restaurants are set to help turn the city's downtown into a vibrant hub. Head coach Kris Knoblauch said the excitement provides adrenaline for players.
- The University of Alberta plans to remove the Casavant pipe organ from Convocation Hall as part of a renovation project. The university said the organ presents an accessibility barrier, with renovations aiming to enhance the space. Some faculty members have expressed concerns, highlighting the instrument's historical significance and what they see as a lack of consultation. The university said it plans to relocate the organ.
- Edmonton city council finalized the annual tax levy on April 17, approving changes to maintain the 6.9% municipal tax increase for 2026, which was initially approved in December 2025. This increase addresses challenges like inflation, rapid population growth, and rising service costs. A household with a $492,500 assessed property will pay $318 monthly for municipal services. A bylaw to set tax rates is expected on April 28. Public engagement for the 2027-2030 budget is open until May 1.
- The City of Edmonton will begin rehabilitation work on the 112 Avenue Bridge over Wayne Gretzky Drive starting the week of April 20. This project addresses deteriorating elements and adds a new shared pathway on the north side, extending the bridge's service life by about 20 years, the City said. Traffic on 112 Avenue will reduce to one through lane and one turning lane in each direction, while temporary lane closures will occur on Wayne Gretzky Drive outside peak hours.
- Sexual assault charges against self-styled spiritual leader John de Ruiter and his wife, Leigh Ann, have been stayed. The couple, who faced six charges each, were slated for trial in September. The Alberta Crown Prosecution Service said that it could not proceed after a thorough review, and that an internal review is underway "to examine what occurred and to help ensure that a situation like this does not happen in the future." Police alleged John de Ruiter, leader of the College of Integrated Philosophy, or Oasis Group, told female members that sexual activity with him would lead to spiritual enlightenment. The Edmonton Police Service and the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton expressed disappointment over the stay of charges, which allows prosecutors to pursue the charges again within one year.
Headlines: April 20, 2026
By Mariam Ibrahim