Hundreds of residents in Jasper, Alberta, who were displaced by a massive wildfire last summer may find temporary housing solutions within or near the town by March. Parks Canada is planning to establish 100 duplex trailers, totaling up to 200 housing units, and 120 dorm rooms by February 26. The duplex trailers will cater to families, while the dorm rooms will accommodate individuals and couples.
Michael Fark, the municipality’s director of recovery, stated during a recent committee meeting that interim housing efforts are underway to address the housing demand following the wildfire that ravaged one-third of Jasper’s homes and businesses in July. The announcement follows a rally in Jasper where residents urged the provincial government to fulfill its commitment to providing housing support.
Recent reports from the Insurance Bureau of Canada revealed that the wildfire caused $1.23 billion in damages, making it the second-costliest insured fire in Canadian history. The Jasper Recovery Coordination Centre shared details about the temporary housing plans being pursued by Parks Canada during an information session.
The duplex trailers will be located on four parcels of land within the town limits, offering affordable monthly rent prices that include utilities and internet. The dorm-style units, situated south of the townsite at Marmot Meadows, will feature shared amenities and varying bed sizes, catering to different needs.
Residents in need of interim housing are encouraged to apply through the municipality’s program. Despite delays in the construction of single-family housing units by the Alberta government, efforts are being made to provide suitable housing options to address the community’s needs. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s decision to prorogue Parliament until March 24 has added complexity to the process of securing land for housing developments near Jasper.
While the focus remains on establishing immediate housing solutions, plans for long-term housing options are being considered to address Jasper’s pre-existing housing shortage. The commitment is to provide permanent housing solutions to the affected residents.