AI Pilot Program
From October 13 to December 31, 2026, the City of Grande Prairie is testing a new way for residents to access City information and services outside regular AccessGP hours.
When you call AccessGP after hours, your call may be answered by Riley, an AI voice assistant that can answer common questions, help you find the right City service and send your inquiry to City staff for follow-up when needed.
This pilot expands AccessGP service. It does not replace AccessGP staff, reduce daytime service or change AccessGP’s regular operating hours.
Why are we exploring this option?
Residents need City information outside regular business hours.
AccessGP receives approximately 350 after-hours calls each month, with seasonal peaks of more than 700 calls per month. Currently, many residents who call after hours need to wait until the next business day for assistance.
The pilot gives the City an opportunity to see whether an AI voice assistant can help residents get answers to common questions when AccessGP is closed, while still connecting them with City staff when their question requires additional support.
The City is testing the service for a limited period before making any decisions about whether it should be used in the future.
What happens when I call?
If your after-hours call is answered by Riley, you can ask your question in your own words. You do not need to navigate a traditional automated phone menu.
Depending on your question, Riley may:
- Answer common questions about recreation, transit, roads/construction, snow, facility hours and general City services using City-approved information
- Help you find the appropriate City service or resource.
- Send your inquiry to AccessGP staff for follow-up during regular business hours if it cannot provide an answer.
- Direct certain urgent Transportation or Public Works matters through the City's existing after-hours process.
The assistant is designed to use information provided and approved by the City rather than searching the internet or creating its own answer. If it does not have enough information to answer a question, Riley will inform you and then move to the appropriate next step instead.
What the AI Assistant does not do:
Riley is intended to help with common City questions. It does not replace City employees or make decisions on behalf of the City.
It cannot:
- Handle 9-1-1 or life-safety emergencies.
- Make enforcement decisions.
- Approve permits or licenses.
- Make decisions that require City staff judgment or review.
- Answer questions when the necessary City information is not available to it.
For emergencies involving immediate danger to life or safety, always call 9-1-1.