Headline: Jasper, Alta., Lifts Checkpoints but Still Urges Visitors to Stay Clear Amid Wildfire Aftermath
In a move to support residents grappling with the aftermath of a devastating wildfire, the town of Jasper, Alta., has decided to remove RCMP checkpoints at the townsite entrance. However, visitors are being reminded to give the community space and respect during its recovery process.
Following an announcement on social media, the municipality shared that the removal of traffic checkpoints was at the request of residents with damaged properties who require assistance with insurance claims. While RCMP officers will continue to patrol the area, services and amenities in Jasper remain limited, with a local state of emergency still in effect weeks after the destructive blaze swept through the historic townsite.
Christine Nadon, incident commander for the municipality, emphasized that despite progress towards rebuilding, Jasper is not yet prepared to open its doors to outsiders. She stated, “There are no hotels, restaurants, or businesses open. We need the space to support our residents and businesses as they recover. We ask for your understanding and cooperation during this time.”
Efforts are underway to welcome additional support workers and volunteers to aid in clean-up and recovery operations, but the process will take time. Schools in Jasper are currently undergoing cleaning procedures to prepare for the return of students on September 17th.
The recent news conference held in Hinton by Parks Canada and municipal officials provided updates on the fire response and recovery progress. Jasper residents received a glimmer of hope as the wildfire, now spanning 33,000 hectares, was declared to be under control, easing fears of further spread beyond its current perimeter.
As the community cautiously reopens, Mayor Richard Ireland expressed the emotional challenges faced by returning residents, acknowledging the collective grief and gratitude felt by those who have begun confronting their losses.
While Jasper National Park remains closed, some attractions are gradually reopening to the public. Officials are committed to restoring access to backcountry areas and trails, with ongoing efforts to clear and reopen damaged roadways, including the iconic Icefields Parkway.
Despite the challenges ahead, the resilient community of Jasper continues to push forward, united in their efforts to rebuild and recover from the devastation of the wildfire.
In a move to support residents grappling with the aftermath of a devastating wildfire, the town of Jasper, Alta., has decided to remove RCMP checkpoints at the townsite entrance. However, visitors are being reminded to give the community space and respect during its recovery process.
Following an announcement on social media, the municipality shared that the removal of traffic checkpoints was at the request of residents with damaged properties who require assistance with insurance claims. While RCMP officers will continue to patrol the area, services and amenities in Jasper remain limited, with a local state of emergency still in effect weeks after the destructive blaze swept through the historic townsite.
Christine Nadon, incident commander for the municipality, emphasized that despite progress towards rebuilding, Jasper is not yet prepared to open its doors to outsiders. She stated, “There are no hotels, restaurants, or businesses open. We need the space to support our residents and businesses as they recover. We ask for your understanding and cooperation during this time.”
Efforts are underway to welcome additional support workers and volunteers to aid in clean-up and recovery operations, but the process will take time. Schools in Jasper are currently undergoing cleaning procedures to prepare for the return of students on September 17th.
The recent news conference held in Hinton by Parks Canada and municipal officials provided updates on the fire response and recovery progress. Jasper residents received a glimmer of hope as the wildfire, now spanning 33,000 hectares, was declared to be under control, easing fears of further spread beyond its current perimeter.
As the community cautiously reopens, Mayor Richard Ireland expressed the emotional challenges faced by returning residents, acknowledging the collective grief and gratitude felt by those who have begun confronting their losses.
While Jasper National Park remains closed, some attractions are gradually reopening to the public. Officials are committed to restoring access to backcountry areas and trails, with ongoing efforts to clear and reopen damaged roadways, including the iconic Icefields Parkway.
Despite the challenges ahead, the resilient community of Jasper continues to push forward, united in their efforts to rebuild and recover from the devastation of the wildfire.
