New ‘river’ water feature open at Alberta legislature

The dome fountain at the Alberta legislature reopened in 2024 after four years of renovations. It is pictured here on May 16, 2025. (Sean McClune/CTV News Edmonton)

After years of work, the new water feature at the Alberta legislature is open.

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The update to the more-than-a-century-old legislature grounds was unveiled for the long weekend. The “river” is located at the north plaza and replaces the old terraced wading pools.

The design, voted on by more than 3,600 Albertans, includes water spray, light features and boulders sourced from across Alberta. It’s part of a suite of upgrades that have taken place over the past five years.

Alberta’s legislature grounds were completed in 1913, and the reflecting pool and dome fountain were built in 1970. They were closed in 2020 for repairs and reopened in 2024.

“I am thrilled visitors from across Alberta, Canada, and the world can experience this first-rate public infrastructure this summer,” Martin Long, minister of infrastructure said.

“Thank you to everyone involved who made this project a reality for everyone to enjoy for generations.”

Renovations to the legislature’s water features cost the Alberta government $12 million, with the federal government supplying $8 million.