During a recent meeting, Jasper Municipal Council approved a $3,204,123 contract with Johnston Builders to construct a transit fleet facility, including charging infrastructure for three battery electric buses. The decision, passed with a narrow 4-3 vote, reflects the council's commitment to sustainable transit solutions. The municipality aims to transition its transit fleet to zero-emission vehicles, supported by a $5-million federal grant. This move is projected to result in a net financial benefit of $474,245 over the 2026-2040 period by transitioning to an ownership model. Despite concerns raised by some councillors regarding costs and community sentiment, the majority saw the project as a step towards reducing vehicle travel and addressing climate change. Additionally, the council authorized the administration to issue a request for proposals for the supply of the battery electric buses and associated charging infrastructure. While there was a suggestion to consider hydrogen fuel cell buses, the decision favored battery electric buses due to the maturity of the technology and the absence of hydrogen filling stations in the vicinity. The approved project represents a significant investment in sustainable transportation and community development in Jasper.