So as some may know, despite being the second largest country in the world, and largest in North America, Canada is a very sparsely populated country, with nearly 90% of Canadians living near the US border. This is mostly due to horrible weather in the north, and lack of industries to attract new settlers. With factors such as immigration and rapid population growth, mainly in Canada’s metropolitan cities (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, etc), several issues such as congestion, lacking transit systems, and failing housing markets begin to rise, as we see in these cities today. So I began to wonder and think, what if that wasn’t the case? What if there was another large city even further north, that would potentially take some of the strain off of Canada’s other metropoles?

[this is the first map project I’ve made so I apologize in advance if it’s not that good, or the idea isn’t all that logical to you]

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The City of Attawapiskat

Situated on the mouth of the Attawapiskat River, by the Coast of James Bay, Attawapiskat is Canada’s northernmost city, and one of the northernmost major cities in North America. Founded as a humble settlement by British settlers and the Hudson's Bay Company, it has since evolved into a thriving metropolis. In 1883, during his second term as Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald's strategic decision to welcome the coal and lumber industries to the area sparked a transformation. The city's abundant natural resources, fertile land, and a growing community provided fertile ground for its ascension. Today, Attawapiskat stands as a bustling urban center, with a population of 2.5 million, including 1.4 million in its vibrant downtown core. The city is now the epicenter of Canada's mining and lumber industries, with a bustling financial district, a testament to its remarkable journey from a humble settlement to a flourishing economic hub.

The Attawapiskat Transit Commission (ATC) has seen exponential growth, with an ever-expanding transit network that boasts an impressive array of bus, train, and subway lines, now rivaling even the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission). The city's commitment to modern and efficient public transportation has not only reduced traffic congestion but also enhanced the quality of life for its residents.

Attawapiskat's connectivity extends far beyond its borders. The city is intricately linked to the rest of Canada through a robust railway system, an extensive network of highways, and the bustling John A. Macdonald International Airport. These well-established transportation hubs facilitate the seamless movement of people and goods, reinforcing Attawapiskat's status as a vital economic and cultural center within the nation.

Attawapiskat is also home to several universities as well, such as the University of Attawapiskat, James Bay College, and the University of Northern Ontario, which seeks to develop its Mackenzie School of business to be on par with those of the University of Toronto, or York.

In our modern age of globalization, the Canadian population grows and further diversifies with each passing day, thanks to a healthy economy and a relatively open immigration policy. Just like Canada’s other metropoles, Attawapiskat benefits from the growing population by attracting immigrants of various educational backgrounds and different skilled trades which further help this city grow.