A municipal police force has officially taken over operations from RCMP in Grande Prairie. “While this change brings mixed emotions for many who have served in Grande Prairie and called the city home, it also reflects years of commitment, planning and collaboration,” RCMP Dept. Commissioner Trevor Daroux said in a statement Wednesday. RCMP have had a presence in Grande Prairie for more than 120 years. The transition to the Grande Prairie Police Service (GPPS) began in 2023, backed by nearly $17 million from the province. “Today marks a significant milestone for the City of Grande Prairie,” said Mayor Jackie Clayton in a statement. “We are proud to welcome the GPPS as our police service, marking a new chapter in public safety built on local oversight, strong community partnerships, and a shared commitment to keeping Grande Prairie safe.” Grande Prairie has a population of about 64,000 and is about 400 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.