Jasper Rebuilds After Wildfire: Construction Surges Amid Challenges

UPDATE: Construction has officially commenced in Jasper, Alberta, as the town begins to recover from the devastating wildfire that destroyed 358 structures last year. Following a slow start due to complex challenges, builders are now mobilizing, with significant developments occurring as of September 12, 2025.

Scott Fash, CEO of BILD Alberta, announced that permit approvals are now flowing, allowing construction on multiple sites to kick off. “We’re really starting to hit the ground running now,” Fash stated during a September 15 interview, highlighting a recent call with builders that indicates a growing momentum in recovery efforts.

The wildfire ravaged nearly a third of Jasper’s townsite, primarily affecting residential areas. As of now, there are 11 properties actively under construction and 34 properties with approved building permits ready to proceed. However, the recovery process is complex, with many homeowners facing challenges related to insurance claims and site preparation.

Michael Fark, municipal director of recovery, confirmed that some leaseholders are dealing with underinsurance issues and disputes with insurance companies, complicating their ability to rebuild. “Some people are still in a dispute with their insurance company over the nature of their settlement,” Fark explained, emphasizing that assistance programs are being developed to aid affected residents.

In a notable announcement, the federal government has allocated an additional $5 million to assist with clearing contaminated soil, a critical step for many rebuilding efforts. Fash underscored the collaborative support from both Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper, stating, “There really is a collaborative effort on the part of everybody to try to fix those issues as fast as possible.”

While winter may slow construction, Fash noted that Alberta builders are skilled at winter construction, and many are prepared to utilize on-site heating to continue work. “We’ve gotten pretty good in Alberta at being able to build homes in the winter,” he said, projecting that 2026 will be an “incredibly busy year of construction in Jasper.”

Residents eager to rebuild their homes can expect timelines of two to three years for completion, with commercial projects, including hotels and gas stations, likely facing longer delays. The situation remains fluid as local officials continue to work closely with builders and homeowners to navigate the complexities of recovery in a national park setting.

As the town of Jasper moves forward, the emphasis remains on transparency and support for those affected by the wildfire. With each new permit and construction project, the community inches closer to recovery, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

For those affected, the message is clear: the journey to rebuild is well underway, and help is available. Residents are urged to stay engaged with local recovery efforts to ensure a smooth transition back to normalcy.