A pair of announcements came yesterday from both the federal and provincial governments.
In a significant step forward for Jasper’s wildfire recovery, the governments of Canada and Alberta have announced additional funding to help residents, businesses, and the national park rebuild. The feds have announced an additional $160.1 million, and the province $8 million.
New federal funding:
- $30 million to provide 320 interim housing units, arriving in mid-February 2025
- $9.4 million for 240 new permanent homes over the next three years, as part of a 10-year plan to develop 505 multi-family homes.
- $133.1 million for wildfire mitigation, debris removal, and rebuilding in Jasper National Park.
New provincial funding:
- $3 million to forgive property taxes for all leaseholders during the evacuation period, with extended relief through 2024 for homes and businesses that remain uninhabitable.
- $3.1 million to help the Municipality of Jasper recover lost revenue, ensuring continued public services.
- $2 million to fund regional transit services between Jasper and Hinton, helping displaced workers and residents maintain access to their community.