Cold Lake Council Supports Research Grant for Transit Study

The City of Cold Lake has officially backed a research initiative led by Assistant Professor Jacob A.K. Alhassan from the University of Saskatchewan. During a special council meeting on September 16, 2023, members voted to provide a letter of support for Alhassan’s application for the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Insight Grant.

The proposed research project aims to investigate the implications of Cold Lake’s free public transit system, which has garnered significant attention in the region. Chief Administrative Officer Kevin Nagoya informed the council that the university approached the city to collaborate on this project. According to Nagoya, Alhassan’s research will focus on the impact of the city’s transit program, which has become a cornerstone for enhancing quality of life for various community members.

Cold Lake stands out among municipalities in Western Canada by offering a completely free public transit system. This initiative aims to minimize barriers for residents, particularly benefiting youth, seniors, low-income families, and Indigenous community members. The city’s letter of support highlights this commitment, noting that the free transit model is being recognized as an innovative approach to mobility, equity, and accessibility.

The research project promises to create a “free transportation advocacy toolkit,” intended not only for Cold Lake but also for other municipalities aiming to improve their transit systems. The city emphasized the broader implications of this study, suggesting it could serve as a valuable resource for enhancing mobility and equity across Western Canada.

Interest in Cold Lake’s transit system has been growing, with inquiries coming from various regions. Nagoya stated, “We do get calls about the City of Cold Lake’s program and wanting to do some study around the benefits of the program for the community.” This interest underscores the significance of the research, which aims to examine the community impacts of the transit system.

The SSHRC Insight Grant program supports vital research within the humanities and social sciences throughout Canada, with the deadline for the October 2025 competition currently open. Alhassan’s project is expected to use Cold Lake’s transit system as a case study to analyze its effects on the community, aligning with the city’s goals to foster inclusivity and accessibility in public transportation.

By endorsing Alhassan’s grant application, the Cold Lake council demonstrates its commitment to advancing social research and improving public services for its residents.