Jasper ending state of emergency as focus shifts to long-term recovery

JASPER — The municipality of Jasper in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains is taking the next step this weekend as it recovers from a July wildfire that destroyed a third of its buildings.

Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland says the state of emergency will formally end on Sunday.

Ireland says the move means Jasper is transitioning from a short-term recovery perspective to a long-term view.

He also says removing the state of emergency order will help the tourist town’s much needed visitor economy return.

The wildfire destroyed more than 350 of the town’s buildings, including 800 housing units.

The town estimates 2,000 of its 5,000 residents lost their homes.

Although still burning, the wildfire that hit the community was listed as under control a week ago.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 13, 2024

The Canadian Press