Parks Canada confirmed the worst-kept secret in Jasper shortly after 4 p.m. Sept. 6.
Whistlers Campground, the largest campground in Jasper National Park and the closest to the townsite, will not be rebuilt in time for the vital busy season in 2020.
The Fitzhugh has been trying to confirm this fact with Parks officials for weeks as rumours have circulated amongst some residents and business owners that the 781-site complex would not reopen after 2019 as initially indicated.
“Parks Canada is again communicating as early as possible that the campground will remain closed in 2020 to provide as much certainty as possible for visitors, business and tourism industry,” a press release read. “The size and complexity of the project have meant that contracting and work at the site have required more time than initially expected.”
Parks said the government’s national buy-and-sell body and contractor PCL, which won the $48 million contract earlier this year, decided as a threesome that opening parts of Whistlers next year is not “the most prudent way forward.
“It is simply not safe, desirable, or practical to have visitors camping adjacent to a construction zone,” spokesperson Amélie Rivera wrote. “Parks Canada understands the concerns and difficulties associated with this closure and is committed to providing visitors, the community and local businesses with timely updates as the project progresses.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding as this project moves forward.”
She said more than 1,000 other front-country campsites in 10 campgrounds in Jasper National Park will continue to be available for the 2020 camping season.
