The pedestrian-and-cyclist-only streets have become warm-weather amenities beloved by both residents and visitors
As COVID-19 restrictions begin to recede into memory in much of the world, two of Alberta’s most popular tourist towns, Banff and Canmore, have decided that one type of pandemic measure is worth keeping, at least for now: summertime road closingsInitially introduced by the crowded Rocky Mountain towns as temporary measures to encourage distancing between people, the pedestrian-and-cyclist-only streets have become warm-weather amenities beloved by both residents and visitors.
She noted that creating the Bear Street Shared Street, a permanent pedestrian-priority street in the town, whichBanff Avenue is the town’s main artery. It connects downtown with south-side neighbourhoods and attractions. Buses are allowed to drive slowly on the street to maintain those connections.as a result of the road closings, especially on busy summer days. To reduce the number of vehicles downtown, it promotes free parking an eight-minute walk away.
Daniella Rubeling, a visitor experience manager for the Banff field unit of Parks Canada, said the highway has long been a popular place for cyclists comfortable riding with motor vehicles. But the pandemic closing created an opportunity for people who are less comfortable in mixed traffic to enjoy the route. “It kind of became this cycling mecca of sorts,” she said.
Today, improved signage leads visitors from the town of Banff along connector trails to the parkway, where people ride bikes and e-bikes, walk, run and rollerblade in an area that is home to wolves, bears, deer, elk and moose. “It encourages people to see the park in a different way,” Ms. Rubeling said.
“We see a lot of people coming down, sitting, having their coffee, looking in the shops and just enjoying the extra space and the positive atmosphere that comes when you have a number of people in the downtown area,” said Sean Krausert, Canmore’s mayor. Restaurants, art galleries and clothing stores expand onto the street, he said, while a large deer sculpture in the middle of the road is a popular photo spot.
Leaders in Canmore and Banff say the vehicle-free areas fit with a broader push to reconsider how people travel through the mountains. Mr. Krausert said Canmore wants to make walking, biking and public transportation safe and convenient.
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