Banff makeover: Input sought before big changes made

Parks Canada is seeking input on the redesign of the 200 block of Banff Avenue, asking Canadians to consider six potential redesigns of the area. (Parks Canada)

Banff, while already a picturesque location, is looking to Canadians to help make it even more visually stunning by deciding on the future of a stretch of land in the heart of the mountain town.

Officials with Parks Canada have released a series of renderings showing potential redevelopment plans for the 200 block of Banff Avenue, which includes Banff’s visitor centre.

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Parks Canada and the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) launched an international competition in June 2025 seeking conceptual designs.

“Our goal is to transform the 200 block of Banff Avenue into an innovative and welcoming space that will meet the needs of the community along with those of the over four million visitors who come to Banff National Park every year,” Parks Canada said.

After receiving 44 submissions, six teams were selected to participate.

The six teams have submitted their proposals, and Canadians now have until Feb. 27 to view the designs and have their say via an online survey.

When launching the competition last year, officials said the redesign concepts had to include authentic incorporation of Indigenous representation, elements that support the local community and a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

“The redevelopment project brings together world-class architects, Indigenous knowledge weavers, and visitor experience specialists to create concepts that reflect shared values and vision and is a rare chance to create a vibrant public space in the heart of Banff National Park,” Parks Canada said.

The final costs associated with redeveloping the site aren’t yet known.

Parks Canada received funding in 2022 to proceed with studies of the site, initiate engagement with Indigenous communities, stakeholders and the public on the vision for the site, and to undertake an international design competition.