Updated 1:49 pm, Tuesday, July 23rd:
Evacuees from Jasper who don’t have a vehicle can get a ride to Grande Prairie on one of two buses.
One is leaving this afternoon at 4:00, and the other is leaving tomorrow morning at 10:00.
Evacuees from Jasper who don’t have a vehicle can get a ride to Grande Prairie on one of two busses leaving from Prince George:
July 23, 4 p.m.
For the most up-to-date evacuee information, visit the Municipality of Jasper website: https://t.co/Otz2LaCj9F pic.twitter.com/fjQsZrTcZu
— City of Prince George (@CityofPG) July 23, 2024
Original Story:
The City of Prince George is providing a rest stop for Jasper evacuees.
City Director of Administrative Services Eric Depenau said between 100 and 150 evacuees have made their way to Prince George.
“We’ve received a number of tour buses as folks can expect with July traveling in this area,” Depeneau said.
“Many are here to see the natural resources we have, and so we’ve seen tour buses among single vehicles.”
The Kin 2 arena has been opened for the evacuees to rest and refresh before they head to Grande Prairie or Calgary.
The Grande Prairie Reception Centre is located at Bonnets Energy Centre, 10017 99 Avenue.
The Calgary Reception Centre is located at Shouldice Athletic Park, 1515 Home Road NW.
The Government of #Alberta has issued information for evacuees travelling from #Jasper, through #BC. Support will be available at Designated Reception Centres:
–#GrandePrairie: Bonnets Energy Centre, 10017 99 Ave, Grande Prairie. Opening at 9 am.
–#Calgary: Shouldice Athletic… https://t.co/J6Nj0HVvru— Emergency Info BC (@EmergencyInfoBC) July 23, 2024
City of Prince George Emergency Support Services are not providing lodging or food service, but they are available to assist evacuees to make their own arrangements.
“At this time our support looks like a safe spot to rest, regroup, and connect with loved ones and information, maybe a quick snack, and then continuing onto their final destination,” Depenau said.
City officials confirmed in an email they have not been authorized to provide vouchers for food or lodging.
Instead, the Government of Alberta has asked the City to redirect evacuees to Calgary or Grande Prairie, where they will be provided support services.
Last night, thousands of people from Jasper, Alberta were forced to evacuate due a fire that threatened their homes. I just reached out to @ABDanielleSmith. Our teams will work closely. I know BCers all along the border will help Albertans in their time of need. It’s who we are. pic.twitter.com/y208IhnxAB
— David Eby (@Dave_Eby) July 23, 2024
In addition, Depeneau said the City of Prince George sent help to Williams Lake to deal with the River Valley Wildfire in the City.
“Through different arrangements that are in place between municipalities, the City of Prince George was able to dispatch two backup fire engines, as well as six personnel to go down and support our neighbours and what they’re dealing with,” he said.
“We understand with the weather changes that response is going quite well, but those resources remain in Williams Lake at this time.”
The BC Wildfire Service says the River Valley Wildfire is now considered as being held.
Evacuees are asked to travel to Calgary for support services. The Reception Centre is located at Shouldice Athletic Park, 1515 Home Road NW, Calgary, A.B.
Kin 2 arena in #CityofPG (2181 Ospika Boulevard) has been opened for evacuees to rest and refresh. https://t.co/ZoGoJYEmab pic.twitter.com/RehMIh0EHP
— City of Prince George (@CityofPG) July 23, 2024
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