Editor:
The letter to the editor in the Jan. 18 Outlook from the executive director of Friends of Calgary Airport Banff Rail may be a little bit ahead of itself. Although he notes that "significant progress" has been made, there are still a few roadblocks to be overcome before construction can begin. Talking about construction beginning makes it sound more imminent than it is.
Tourism is back on track and the Alberta government wants more. They plan on doubling tourism dollars in the next five to 10 years, bringing in billions. The money sounds great, but where are you going to put the tourists.
The Alberta government has committed $3 million for a feasibility study on the proposed Calgary-Banff rail link. But Tourism and Sports Minister Joseph Schow admits there is skepticism about this proposed rail link.
He said: "We could consider (the parks) to be the crown jewel of Alberta. But they are very full, and there isn't a lot of room for growth in the parks."
Our premier seems quite keen on the proposal,
Schow, however, is concerned, noting development within national parks is a steep challenge.
"The congestion within Alberta's provincial and national parks has prompted the ministry to focus on developing tourism opportunities around the province to disperse crowds."
Marilyn Foxford,
Canmore
