The MD of Greenview and the Town of Valleyview have been recognized with the 2024 Minister’s Award for Transportation Innovation from the province in recognition of their work on the Valleyview Airport Rehabilitation Project.
Valleyview CAO Ben Berlinguette says the award is quite meaningful for both partners and the airport itself, as it shows just how important the Valleyview Airport is for the town’s residents.
“This award is very prestigious for a small town,” he says.
According to Berlinguette, the majority of the airport’s users include air ambulances, and STARS helicopters, which he says can make the difference between life and death for residents experiencing significant health issues as the drive from Valleyview to Edmonton is three to four hours, while a flight can be as little as 45 minutes.
“It saves lives,” he says. “It’s fairly inefficient for ambulances to go from here to Grande Prairie, or even with the idea that someone might have a stroke to Edmonton.”
Additionally, Berlinguette says Valleyview served as a “key hub” for air transportation for fire crews during last year’s wildfire season, hosting up to 12 firefighting helicopters at once.
“We’re a key hub for helicopters in this region when there are fires this close.”
Greenview Reeve Tyler Olsen adds that the award marks a continued partnership between the MD and the town, and serves as a “testament to the power” of partnerships.
