Edmonton’s Top 5: Local News, Oilers Coverage, and City Updates for February 20, 2026

Good morning, Edmonton. Here are the top five stories you need to know this Friday, February 20, 2026.

1. Council Approves Two Affordable Housing Projects Despite Pushback

Edmonton City Council moved forward with two separate affordable housing developments this week.

The first project in Wedgewood received approval after residents voiced opposition to the plan. Council voted to proceed with the development despite concerns from some community members.

The second project in south Edmonton cleared a significant hurdle. Council approved the sale of city-owned land to Treaty 8 for one dollar. The decision came after a court challenge attempted to block the project.

The south Edmonton development represents a partnership between the city and Treaty 8. The nominal sale price reflects the city’s commitment to increasing affordable housing stock across Edmonton.

Both projects add to the city’s ongoing efforts to address housing affordability. Council continues to face pressure from residents concerned about neighbourhood impacts while working to meet provincial and federal housing targets.

The Wedgewood project details include multi-unit housing on a site previously zoned for different use. Community consultation sessions took place over several months before the final vote.

Treaty 8’s south Edmonton project will provide housing units specifically designed for Indigenous families. The development includes support services and culturally appropriate design elements.

2. Fire Shuts Down Stony Plain Road Corridor

Stony Plain Road remained fully closed Thursday morning between 149 Street and 156 Street.

Emergency crews responded to a fire at an old hotel in the area. The blaze required a full road closure to allow firefighters safe access and operation.

The closure affected morning commuters travelling through west Edmonton. Drivers faced detours through residential areas as crews worked to contain the fire.

City officials advised motorists to avoid the area and use alternative routes. The closure stretched across seven blocks of the major arterial road.

Fire department officials have not released information about injuries or the cause of the fire. The hotel had been vacant for several months prior to the incident.

Traffic resumed later Thursday after crews cleared the scene. The building sustained significant damage. City inspectors will assess the structure before determining next steps.

3. Premier Smith Addresses Albertans Ahead of Budget

Premier Danielle Smith spoke to Albertans this week ahead of the spring sitting of the legislature.

The premier outlined priorities for the 2026 provincial budget. The address came as the legislature prepared to reconvene for the spring session.

Smith’s remarks focused on economic challenges facing the province. Oil prices and federal-provincial relations featured prominently in her comments.

The 2026 budget will address healthcare funding, education spending, and infrastructure projects. Edmonton projects expect significant attention given the city’s growth and infrastructure needs.

The legislature returns to session next week. Budget debates will dominate the spring sitting as MLAs examine spending priorities and revenue projections.

Smith addressed questions about municipal funding formulas. Edmonton and other major cities have pressed for increased provincial support for transit and affordable housing initiatives.

The premier’s address also touched on resource development and environmental policy. Alberta faces pressure to balance economic growth with climate commitments.

Budget documents will be tabled when the legislature convenes. Opposition parties have already signalled plans to scrutinize spending increases and program cuts.

4. Phase 2 Parking Ban Decision Expected This Week

The city will decide whether to implement phase 2 of residential road parking bans.

Officials indicated the decision will come later this week. The announcement follows compliance monitoring of the initial parking ban phase.

Phase 1 restrictions took effect earlier this month. City crews assessed compliance levels and snow clearing effectiveness before proceeding to phase 2.

The parking ban system helps snow removal crews clear residential streets efficiently. The phased approach allows the city to adjust based on weather conditions and compliance rates.

Residents must move vehicles from affected streets when phase 2 takes effect. The city posts notifications on its website and through the Edmonton app.

Snow clearing operations continue across the city. Crews work through residential neighbourhoods following main road and bus route clearing.

Phase 2 typically includes secondary residential streets and cul-de-sacs. The timing depends on snow accumulation and forecasted precipitation.

Parking enforcement increases during ban periods. Vehicles blocking snow clearing operations face tickets and potential towing.

The city encourages residents to check parking ban maps online. The interactive tool shows affected streets and phase timelines.

5. Extreme Cold Continues Across the Region

Overnight temperatures dropped to -28°C across Edmonton.

Wind chill values reached -36°C overnight into Friday morning. The cold snap continues a pattern of below-seasonal temperatures across Alberta.

Environment Canada maintains cold weather warnings for the Edmonton region. Residents should take precautions when heading outdoors.

The extreme cold affects vulnerable populations including those experiencing homelessness. City warming centres remain open with extended hours.

Frostbite can develop within minutes in these conditions. Exposed skin faces risk of cold-related injuries with minimal outdoor exposure.

The cold weather strains vehicle batteries and heating systems. Edmonton emergency services report increased calls for assistance related to cold weather issues.

Schools remain open despite the temperatures. Parents can choose to keep children home under extreme weather provisions.

The forecast shows temperatures moderating through the weekend. Highs near -15°C expected by Sunday with overnight lows less severe than current conditions.

Transit users should dress warmly and plan for potential delays. Cold weather affects bus operations and schedules across the city.

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These stories represent the most significant developments affecting Edmonton today. Check back tomorrow morning at 7 AM Eastern for your next daily roundup.