AB-2023-3201 - Jasper Public Transportation (Transit) System

The Municipality of Jasper (MoJ) is seeking to contract public transportation operations in order to provide a ‘turnkey’ solution to be implemented in advance of the busy 2023 summer season. In 2022 the MoJ undertook a feasibility study of public transportation services and consulted with the public and key stakeholders. Recognizing the multiple entities that provide transport services in the Jasper area, it is anticipated there is significant opportunity to integrate various local services over time. The new service proposed will be in a pilot stage and it is anticipated there will be adjustments and improvements to the service during the contract term. A flexible and responsive Proponent is required that understands the local transportation landscape.

In September 2022, the Municipality of Jasper and Parks Canada entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the provision of public transportation services. As stated in the MOU, this agreement enables the Municipality to operate in Jasper National Park in order to provide essential transportation services to the public. The goal is to provide visitors and residents with an affordable, accessible, and lower-carbon alternative to private vehicles and facilitate their movement around the Park.

The Municipality has a strong desire to pursue the most sustainable public transportation system possible and as such, zero emission fleet are a high priority. While it is preferred that Zero Emission Buses (ZEB) be used in delivery of services, it is understood that there are supply chain challenges in obtaining the required fleet vehicles and therefore both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and zero emission fleet options will be evaluated. Over time it is planned that the MoJ will acquire ZEB fleet vehicles suitable to provide high quality public transit services. The successful Proponent will demonstrate capacity for operation and maintenance of publicly owned fleet assets in the future.