Jasper, Alberta, May 14, 2013 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Rob Merrifield, Member of Parliament for Yellowhead, today announced a major investment in infrastructure at Old Fort Point day-use area in Jasper National Park, to enhance visitor experience.
“Every year, almost two million Canadians and visitors from around the world visit Jasper National Park to sightsee, enjoy iconic Rocky Mountain scenery, and connect to nature,’’ said Mr. Merrifield. “Reinvesting in infrastructure that provides access to Old Fort Point, one of Jasper’s most popular day-use areas, is a bridge today to the future. This investment ensures long-term, sustainable access to Old Fort Point’s extensive recreational opportunities for visitors and residents.”
Built in the 1930s, the three bridges leading to the Old Fort Point recreation area are reaching the end of their serviceable life and present a safety concern for vehicle use. Parks Canada is initiating the necessary repairs and is currently in the tendering process for construction. Funding for the Old Fort Point infrastructure project is provided through visitor fees collected within the Rocky Mountain national parks. Reinvesting these revenues back into our national parks ensures a world-class experience for visitors to the magnificent Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, now and in the future.
“The Government of Canada is reinvesting in our national parks and infrastructure,” said Minister Kent. “These infrastructure improvements not only contribute to economic growth, but also strengthen tourism in local communities and increase visitor opportunities to connect with the national parks.”
Over the past few years, “Fees at Work” projects have significantly enhanced visitor experiences in Jasper National Park by upgrading the Toe of the Glacier day-use area at the Columbia Icefields, installing playgrounds and new interpretive trails at Jasper’s popular campgrounds, and helping fund implementation of Jasper’s Three Valley Confluence Trail System, including completely updated trailhead kiosks. Over the past two years, Parks Canada has reinvested almost $4 million into Jasper National Park’s infrastructure.
Jasper National Park, the largest of Canada’s mountain national parks at more than 11,000 km2, is part of one of the finest and most extensive systems of protected natural areas in the world. Parks Canada is committed to ensuring Canada’s special places are presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.
For additional information on Jasper National Park, visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca.
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