Travel Drumheller plans to submit a grant application to the Alberta Real Estate Foundation for a proposed project which will explore transit options within the Town of Drumheller, and has received support from neighbouring Kneehill County.
Kneehill County council approved a request for a letter of support during its regular Tuesday, March 11 council meeting.
“This initiative is a key component of the 2025 Action Plan and part of the ongoing implementation of our community’s tourism strategy, the Destination Development Plan (DDP),” shares Travel Drumheller marketing manager Keri Looijen.
She tells the Mail this will be a multi-year project and will include a feasibility study as well as a shuttle pilot. These elements will help determine how transit options in Drumheller could “improve the visitor experience” while also tackling some challenges some residents may have with transportation throughout the Drumheller Valley.
Travel Drumheller hopes that offering alternative transportation options to visitors, especially to popular visitor destinations may encourage them to “explore without relying on personal vehicles.”
This could reduce traffic and parking congestion concerns, especially during peak times at popular locations, and potentially lead to the opportunity to offer commercial bus services.
The pilot could also benefit residents living and working in the Drumheller Valley by offering an accessible and affordable option for getting around the community.
At this time the project is in the grant funding phase and no municipal funds have been requested at this time.
Ms. Looijen notes project timelines and community outreach plans are anticipated to be shared later this year, and encourages those interested in following or getting involved in the project to review the 2025 Action Plan and sign up for the DDP newsletter on the Travel Drumheller website.
