With Alberta’s population nearing the five-million mark, an independent commission is reviewing the province’s electoral map ahead of the next general election.

The Alberta Electoral Boundaries Commission has concluded a series of public consultations and is preparing to add two new ridings, bringing the number of seats in the Legislative Assembly from 87 to 89. The review, conducted roughly every decade, aims to ensure fair representation as demographic and population shifts occur across the province.

Among the key challenges is whether to increase the number of so-called “rurban” ridings — districts that combine both rural and urban communities. Proponents argue the approach could encourage broader regional representation, but critics say it risks weakening the voices of distinct rural or urban communities.

This marks the first time the commission is not bound by legislation to align riding borders with existing municipal boundaries. That change opens the door to more significant boundary adjustments, particularly in fast-growing areas.

According to the commission, nine ridings—most of them in Calgary and Edmonton—have populations well above the provincial average, indicating that new seats are likely to be added in urban centres. Meanwhile, some rural districts may see expanded geographical boundaries to balance representation.

An interim report is expected in October 2025, with a final report to be submitted to the legislature by March 2026. Any changes would take effect in time for the next provincial election.