INNISFAIL - The town has taken the first step to be part of a new provincial government rural transportation pilot program designed to give citizens of rural communities, including Innisfail and area, easier access to mid-sized urban centres.
At council's regular meeting on March 12, an administration report was presented by Karen Bradbury, the town's community and social development coordinator, that outlined the pilot program's benefits and the application and grant process, which is being led by Red Deer County in partnership with Innisfail, Penhold and the City of Red Deer.
Council approved in principle the regional joint grant application to Alberta Transportation for the pilot project. However, the agreement with complete details will come back to council later this spring. Council will then decide whether to go ahead or not, said Todd Becker, the town's chief administrative officer.
On Feb. 26, Penhold council agreed to provide a letter of support to Red Deer County, and endorsed the grant application for the pilot project.
Bradbury's report to Innisfail council said rural municipalities selected for the pilot program -- ones within 50 kilometres of mid-sized urban centres -- will be eligible to apply for a grant of up to $350,000 per year to support 24 months of service delivery. She met with regional partners on Feb. 28 to work out the details of the joint proposal to Alberta Transportation.
"This will expand the Red Deer County conventional transit service from Springbrook to include the towns of Penhold and Innisfail, if approved," said Bradbury in her report. "The impact of this service for the municipality will result in an increased ability to respond to gaps and trends in the community by increasing access to regional programs and services based on identified needs."
Bradbury's report added the new transportation service will give the community access to essential government, medical and social services not available in town, as well as giving citizens increased access to employment opportunities, and educational and training programs.
Her report added that if funding is approved for the regional partnership council will later be provided with a detailed budget and business plan for its review, feedback and final approval.
