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COMBINED $5.5 MILLION

Feds and province investing in Jasper tourism

Oct 18, 2024 | 4:25 PM

The federal and provincial governments are both investing into global tourism promotion for the Town of Jasper in an effort to help it recover from a devastating wildfire that destroyed one-third of the town in July.

Jasper thrives off of a tourism-based economy, and the Government of Alberta has earmarked $2.5 million to help the industry recover. The Government of Canada is investing $3 million into the same effort.

“Tourism is the backbone of Jasper’s economy, and for the town to rebuild, we need to see a strong return of tourism businesses, accommodation providers, services and experiences. This funding will help Jasper’s tourism businesses prepare to welcome visitors this fall and winter, ensuring they remain viable and ready for next summer,” says Joseph Schow, Minister of Tourism and Sport.

The provincial funding, through Travel Alberta, will be aimed at supporting businesses and tourism operators in their early work to rebuild. In the immediate aftermath of the fires, this funding helped to support the “Jasper is Recovering” campaign, and is expected to support promotional activities to encourage visits this fall and winter, sustainability funding for Tourism Jasper, and funding for existing tourism businesses to activate fall and winter experiences.

“A strong and thriving visitor economy is essential for our residents to rebuild swiftly and continue welcoming visitors to Jasper,” comments Tyler Riopel, CEO of Tourism Jasper. “These funds will provide direct support to our tourism operators and help reinforce the message that Jasper is open for business this fall and into the winter season. We are deeply grateful for the support and contributions of our provincial tourism partners.”

Jasper accounts for 22-25 per cent of tourism expenditures in the Canadian Rockies.

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