Highway 16 to reopen Friday

By Spencer Hall

Highway 16 is set to reopen during set hours on Friday morning at 7 a.m. to all motorists looking to travel through Jasper.

According to an update provided by Jasper National Park, the roadway will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. MDT, though these times may change and are dependent on fire behavior and operational needs.

The opening times now apply to commercial traffic as well.

The National Park says travellers are not permitted to stop along the highway, must follow all signs and speed limits, and be aware there are no washrooms or gas stations available.

“Peace officers will have enhanced patrols to ensure these travel restrictions are followed,” the Park said.

The reopening is only for Highway 16 and doesn’t apply to Highway 93N in Jasper or other roads in the park, which remain closed.

“Details on reopening those roadways will be shared when the information becomes available,” the Park said.