Grande Prairie issues school safety warnings as Whitecourt housing facility faces closure

In Grande Prairie, authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution as the new school year begins. The Grande Prairie Police Service and Grande Prairie Enforcement Services have noted that increased pedestrian, cycling, and walking activity requires heightened driver awareness, particularly around intersections and crosswalks.

School zones will be active on school days from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a maximum speed limit of 30 km/h. Enforcement services will focus on parking and traffic safety throughout September, targeting violations such as parking within five metres of crosswalks, obstructing sidewalks, or parking in designated “No Parking” or “No Stopping” areas.

In Whitecourt, the Eagle's Nest transitional housing facility is scheduled to close by September 30 following the denial of a rezoning application by the town council. The Soaring Eagle Support Society (SESS) reported that the decision leaves 24 residents seeking new accommodations. SESS Director Cindy Gurney noted that the facility has served over 100 people with disabilities or those facing hardship over the last five years.