Police are reminding motorists not to stop along roadways in Jasper National Park and that the townsite is for residents only.
RCMP confirmed several members of the public have been given warnings, but no charges have been laid as of Monday (Aug. 26) since the Icefields Parkway – also known as Highway 93N – reopened last week to through traffic only. As part of the opening, there is no stopping between the Athabasca Glacier and the Jasper townsite.
“This is still an active area, and we do have increased patrols where we’re patrolling up and down the roadway,” said Cpl. Troy Savinkoff, a media relations officer with Alberta RCMP.
“We understand the importance of that roadway and the importance of people travelling safely through it to get to British Columbia and so forth, so it's important that is open. However, people need to follow the rules that are in place for all various reasons. So, we are making patrols, and anytime we encounter anybody, we're certainly getting them to move along.”
No stopping is allowed along the parkway since trailheads and other areas still need to be assessed for hazards such as fire-damaged trees.
Motorists are also asked not to enter the Jasper townsite where only residents, first responders and recovery workers are currently allowed.
While the townsite no longer has entrance checkpoints, Mounties are still conducting patrols inside.
“And it should be noted that there are some residents who still haven't actually returned and seen their property, so they're wanting that privacy within that community, and are asking people not to stop and not to photograph their properties,” Savinkoff said.
Highway 16, or the Yellowhead Highway, also allows only through traffic inside Jasper National Park. There are no services to the public such as gas, food or washrooms.
People can check 511 Alberta for the latest information about road closures and restrictions.
