The Government of Alberta's Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has undertaken the extensive process of creating a vibrant new neighbourhood within the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo's Urban Service Area of Fort McMurray. Known as Parsons Creek, the planning and design of this 815 hectares (2,014 acres) project began in June 2009.

It is the Government of Alberta's intention to develop this community in an effort to increase available housing and commercial space within the rapidly growing region. Providing opportunities for social programs such as affordable housing, schools, community health centres, and recreation facilities will also be an objective of Parsons Creek.

Through an open and collaborative planning process with the Government of Alberta, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, industry and agency representatives, community representatives, and the general public, an overall vision for the Parsons Creek community was created. Based around the principles of sustainability, Parsons Creek is envisioned to be a walkable, year-round, active neighbourhood to be enjoyed by all residents of the community and Fort McMurray.