Cemetery Progress Update

Town of Stony Plain news

STONY PLAIN, AB: The Town of Stony Plain is taking significant strides towards transforming the cemetery project into a reality. Administration brought Council up to speed on the careful planning and  development of the future non-denominational municipal cemetery at the Tuesday, April 2, 2024 Council Meeting.   

The Town's 2024-2026 Corporate Plan highlights the cemetery project as a key focus, with the aim of creating a non-denominational cemetery offering various burial options. This aligns with the Town's commitment to long-term strategic planning and providing infrastructure and amenities to serve both current and future residents.

"Ongoing progress of this project, including the completion of the design of phase one, brings a sense of accomplishment and anticipation," says Brett Newstead, General Manager of Planning and Infrastructure. "The cemetery is not just about expanding infrastructure; it's a thoughtful response to our community's growth and diverse needs.”

"This project represents more than just a cemetery; it's a reflection of our community's commitment to caring for our residents in every stage of life and beyond. We are creating a non-denominational municipal cemetery that will provide a range of final resting options and a place where memories can be cherished and legacies honoured. I am proud of the progress we've made and look forward to seeing this space become a reality," says Mayor William Choy.

Since 2019, Administration has completed the Cemetery Master Plan, subdivided the cemetery site, engaged with residents in open houses and completed the design of phase 1. Next steps include posting the tender package and awarding a contractor. 

Also, through consultation with the Province, the Town has received specific guidelines outlining the process for the sale of cemetery plots. The guidelines include requirements for details such as plot location and dimensions, provisional and final cemetery certificates, and approval by Alberta Health Services. The Town is working on establishing a Cemetery Bylaw, setting fees, creating terms of reference and contracts for plot purchases, and developing resources for purchaser consultation and information packages.

“It’s very exciting to see this project move forward. While most of the work has been happening behind the scenes, it’s time to enhance communications on this project,” says Senior Communications Officer Stephanie Barsby Boisvert. “This project is a priority of Council, Administration and residents. The public will notice more information coming out on the cemetery as milestones are met throughout the next couple of years.”

Construction is slated to begin in 2025, with an anticipated opening date in 2026. The cemetery will be located on Rosenthal Road (Range Road 12), just north of the railway tracks. For more details about the cemetery project, visit the Parks and Trails page.