Bassano, a charming town nestled in Alberta, Canada, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Located on the Trans-Canada Highway, Bassano is approximately 140 kilometres southeast of Calgary and 160 kilometres northwest of Medicine Hat. The town also lies on the main line of the Canadian Pacific Kansas City, making it easily accessible for travelers.
A stone's throw away from the town, you'll find the Bassano Dam, originally known as the "Horse Shoe Bend Dam". This dam serves as a diversion structure, routing water through a canal into Lake Newell Reservoir. This reservoir is a lifeline for the County of Newell, supplying water for irrigation, recreation, and drinking purposes. Interestingly, the Bassano Dam holds the record for the highest temperature in Alberta, reaching a scorching 43.3 °C (109.9 °F).
The town of Bassano is named after the Marquis de Bassano, a railroad promoter, adding a touch of historical significance to its name.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Bassano, Alberta, had a population of 1,216, with people living in 540 of its 595 total private dwellings. This represented a slight increase of 0.8% from its 2016 population of 1,206. The town, with a land area of 5.23 km2 (2.02 sq mi), had a population density of 232.5/km2 (602.2/sq mi) in 2021.
In the 2016 Census of Population, Bassano recorded a population of 1,206, with residents living in 536 of its 556 total private dwellings. This was a decrease of 5.9% from its 2011 population of 1,282. With a land area of 5.22 km2 (2.02 sq mi), the town had a population density of 231.0/km2 (598.4/sq mi) in 2016.
Bassano, Alberta, is well-equipped with essential infrastructure, ensuring a comfortable stay for its residents and visitors. The town boasts emergency medical services provided by the Bassano Health Centre, ensuring the health and safety of the community.