from "Discover Sylvan Lake 2004, Volume 21"
Described as the 'shining jewel nestled in the heartland of Central Alberta', Sylvan Lake has been playing host to visitors, with its pristine lake and beautiful beaches, since early in the community's settlement.
During the past 100 years it has attained a reputation as the tourist destination of choice in Central Alberta and now attracts an estimated 1.3 million people annually.
Earlier this year Maclean's magazine listed Sylvan Lake as one of the top 10 beaches in Canada, the only one in Alberta to make the list.
The lake and surrounding beach continue to offer a playground for summer and winter fun. A waterslide, among the biggest in Canada, further enhances the opportunity for exciting and entertaining summer action.
The community has also been rated as among the best in Alberta for investment.
In November the Real Estate Investment Network ranked Sylvan Lake third of 31 Alberta cities and towns for return on investment potential.
"Sylvan Lake is Alberta's premier lake. Ninety per cent of Alberta's population is within 1 3/4 hour drive of the lake's shores, creating a high demand for both recreational and residential real estate," the report said.
That demand has fuelled phenomenal grown in the community. Sylvan Lake was rated second fastest growing community in Canada following the 2001 census, behind only Cochrane. The community's population rose from 5,184 in 1996 to 7.493 in 2001. It's estimated the community noew has over 9,000 people. (A municipal census was taken May 10 but details weren't available at press time.)
Last year the community experienced a continuation of construction growth led by residential construction. Over 200 housing units, mostly single family homes, were built again last year, a number that has been attained yearly for the past six yearrs. Construction value last year was just over $30 million, down from the record year in 2002 when the community's total was $41,737,690. Over $30 million of construction projects have been built in four of the past five years.
Some of htat construction has been for additional recreational facilities which the town is developing into another cluster of jewels. An aquatic centre was added in 2002 to the recently renovated arena and curling rink. Its energy efficient geo-thermal heating system, supplemented by a boiler for those extremely cold winter days, has been hailed as state-of-the-art. Whether it's lane swimming, using the climbing wall, or relaxing in the hot tub, the centre offers an enjoyable spot to spend some time, especially on rainy days or in the middle of winter. Just south of the current arena, there are plans for the community's second arena which is planned for construction in 2005, as a provincial centennial project. Following that the upgrading is planned for the curling rink as part of a 10-year plan.
The Community Centre was expanded this spring with a $600,000 addition and the Four Seasons Park has received recent upgrades to shale diamonds and fencing. The town is also setting aside money for purchase of a special events area which will add further opportunities for the community to host visitors at large events.
The town boasts a beautiful new library which also houses Sylvan Lake and District Archives Society.
Schools are also springing up and being expanded to meet the increased demand of more young residents.
Visitors and year round residents alike can enjoy shopping at many specialty shops which dot the community providing a selection of antiques, gifts, original art and summer necessities. Then there are the food establishments which provide variety for those who want a quick bite to those interested in a leisurely meal. For people who enjoy an ice cream cone in the afternoon sun, or a cool, refreshing beverage, Sylvan Lake offers lots of selection.
As the town continues to grow and modern technology gradually covers the tracks made by turn of the century pioneers, Sylvan Lake remains a beautiful resort community.
It's friendly and clean and offers convenient and modern recreational and shopping opportunities. And, interwoven with the modern day services, is a rich and colorful history which will continue to enrich town forever.