The new development in Lacombe located on the corner of Highway 12 and Highway 2 on the west side of the city is gearing up for construction to prepare for a couple of new businesses. The development, called the Midway Centre, has completed infrastructure development and is now ready for the construction buildings and new businesses. 

Right now, YFL Development’s Kanwal Sandhu is looking for locals in the area interested in opening a business in this area of the city. So far, he has received building permits for an Esso Fuel station, a burger franchise, and a Second Cup. 

“We are looking for the franchisee to run a business so we haven’t had any success from the city of Lacombe like people coming forward but people from other cities are coming and willing to open their businesses here,” said Sandhu. 

Construction of the Esso Fuel station and burger station was started last week on June 3rd and construction of the Second cup will begin in July. Both developments are anticipated to be finished before the end of 2020.  

Of course, the pandemic did put a bit of a damper on construction pushed back a few dates and deadlines in order to keep people safe from the virus. 

“If there was no pandemic all this construction would have been started probably in January or February and the beginning of this year,” added Sandhu. 

Other developments are still under consideration including a kid’s recreation centre, other food franchises, and other businesses. 

In addition to buildings and businesses, Sandhu is putting effort into including natural elements into the development. A 1.5 kilometre walking trail has been constructed around a stormwater pond which will provide a nice natural area for users of the development. 

The stormwater pond and 1.5 kilometre walkway located at the Midway Centre.

“This is a very exciting development because we have a very nice location. There is no water falling or pooling in the property so the roads are wider. There’s a lot of nice trees in the median. It’s not just a road. It’s a nice boulevard,” explained Sandhu. 

Townhomes being constructed in the development will also take advantage of the natural areas being constructed backing onto the pond or wooded areas for a nice view. 

Difficulties finding willing business owners from Lacombe

However, it hasn’t entirely been easy for Sandhu. He said finding people willing to own a franchise from Lacombe has been difficult and he has had to expand the search to people from other communities. 

“Lacombe has had a bad experience with other developments where nothing happened. So, maybe the locals have basically lost their trust in someone who can really do something in Lacombe,” explained Sandhu. 

Once construction begins and people start seeing some progress, he is confident more people will step forward and take on ownership. 

“Nobody wants to be the first one in that area of development like a whole city. Once the development will begin, then it will inspire other people and give them confidence,” said Sandhu. 

With the development also comes new jobs available to Lacombe residents. Sandhu predicts the development will create 10 to 15 permanent jobs and 100 to 150 temporary jobs over the next few months. 

Additionally, Sandhu hopes to attract new people to the city. Being located just off the highway means that travellers of Highway 2 and Highway 12 may choose to make a stop in Lacombe more often.

Overall the development is sure to bring something a little different to Lacombe. Although the pandemic has pushed back a couple of dates, Sandhu is excited to bring the Midway Centre to Lacombe and is more than willing to accommodate and help interested parties start a franchise or business. 

“We are very excited to create jobs and bring businesses to Lacombe and we are supportive of the local community. If there’s anybody in Lacombe, we will definitely treat them well, help them be successful, and bring business here. We will not turn them down, but we will support them,” added Sandhu.