The Bow Valley Regional Transit Services Commission (BVRTSC) and Parks Canada continue to grow their partnership in sustainable public transportation in Banff National Park

March 22, 2022, Banff, AB – The BVRTSC is pleased to announce an exciting initiative, with the support of Parks Canada, that will continue to make Banff National Park more accessible and sustainable with better public transit options.

A recently signed five-year contribution agreement, valued at $12.9 million, between Parks Canada and the BVRTSC will further the mission of reducing road emissions, personal car use and traffic by providing the opportunity for Roam Transit to purchase eco-friendly electric buses.

“This agreement is a key milestone in Roam’s movement toward reducing emissions and further encouraging the use of public transit in the Bow Valley,” says Martin Bean, CAO of the BVRTSC. “Our municipal partners; Town of Banff, Town of Canmore and Improvement District 9, join Parks Canada in the commitment to improving environmentally-friendly transit options.”

The first of these Proterra electric buses, to be purchased with funding from Parks Canada and the Government of Alberta’s GreenTRIP grant program, will debut locally this summer and service popular routes such as Lake Minnewanka and Johnston Canyon. In addition, this funding has also enabled the purchase of three additional electric buses to be deployed in the summer of 2023, furthering the joint commitment to sustainable tourism and visitation.

“I applaud Bow Valley Regional Transit’s ongoing commitment to safe and efficient travel for area residents and tourists. This investment will create new opportunities to visit the mountains, catch a ride to work, or meet up with family and friends.”
– Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Transportation, Government of Alberta

“Roam Transit has played a pivotal role in helping our Bow Valley communities manage the high visitation and traffic congestion at Canada’s most iconic Rocky Mountain destinations, while also providing cost-effective transit options for local residents. The purchase of three additional electric buses will ensure that Roam Transit can continue to serve our local population and continue to advance our Valley’s reputation as a sustainable and conscientious tourist destination.”
– Miranda Rosin, MLA for Banff-Kananaskis

“Introducing electric buses for tourists to explore Banff National Park really brings home why we love parks in the first place – because we want to preserve and protect our beautiful natural environment,” said the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. “These electric buses help cut down on pollution and show the leadership of Parks Canada and Bow Valley Regional Transit Service Commission in the fight against climate change.”

Parks Canada welcomes over four million visitors every year to Banff National Park. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and national park, the preservation of Banff’s natural and cultural significance is paramount.