Sherwood Park's Business Evolution: From Humble Beginnings to Modern Developments

In 1955, Sherwood Park emerged amidst Alberta's farmland, marked by four model homes and a pioneering spirit.

 

Glen MacLachlan was the first entrepreneur to invest in this nascent community, opening a coffee shop and general store on Alder Avenue.

 

This establishment also housed the Alberta Government Telephones switchboard and the post office, becoming a central hub for residents.

 

That same year, 11-year-old Bruce Johnson became the community's first paperboy, delivering newspapers to the initial four homes, including his own.

 

By 1958, the first gas station, an Imperial Oil station, opened at the corner of Wye Road and Ash Street, signaling the community's growth.

 

In 1959, with 500 homes established, construction began on the Sherwood Shoppers Park at Wye Road and Sherwood Drive.

 

This shopping center featured a Royalite service station, barber and beauty shops, a pharmacy, hardware store, men's and boys' wear store, and a Safeway.

 

The Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, which opened then, continues to serve the community today.

 

As the community expanded, Robert and Bernice Meyer began offering general insurance from their home in 1959, later moving to the Sherwood Shoppers Park in 1964.

 

Their business, Meyer's Insurance, now operates on Broadway Boulevard, with Bernice and her son Darryl at the helm.

 

Healthcare services also grew, with Dr. Ferrari becoming the first full-time physician in 1960, soon joined by other medical professionals.

 

In 1972, the Sherwood Park Mall, initially named "Eastgate Mall," opened with over 20 businesses, including a Zellers store offering a pharmacy, auto service, and a restaurant.

 

Notably, apple pie and ice cream were priced at 45 cents, and Safeway sold five loaves of bread for a dollar.

 

By 1977, the Chamber of Commerce was established to support local businesses, growing from 45 members at its inception to 858 by 2006.

 

Fast forward to recent developments, Sherwood Park continues to thrive.

 

In August 2025, the Edmonton-Strathcona County Footbridge opened, enhancing connectivity between Sherwood Park and Edmonton.

 

This $41.4 million project includes gathering areas and multi-use pathways, with additional amenities planned for the near future.

 

In the realm of sports infrastructure, the Sherwood Park Arena is set for a $12 million upgrade.

 

This renovation aims to modernize the facility, addressing structural and mechanical issues, and extending its lifespan by at least 15 years.

 

Improvements will include updated washrooms, enhanced accessibility, and additional change rooms.

 

Furthermore, plans are underway for a $65 million indoor fieldhouse, approved by the Strathcona County Council.

 

Scheduled to begin construction in 2028, the facility will cater to sports like baseball, lacrosse, soccer, and rugby, reflecting the community's commitment to recreational development.

 

These initiatives underscore Sherwood Park's dedication to growth and community enhancement, building upon its rich history and looking forward to a vibrant future.