BANFF – The federal government and Parks Canada have announced a $117-million investment in highway infrastructure in Banff National Park.
The repairs are part of a $500-million rehabilitation project for five parks in the region, including Glacier National Park, Jasper National Park and Kootenay National Park. It is the largest federal infrastructure plan in the 104-year history of Parks Canada.
The $117 million dedicated to Banff National Park will go towards repairing sections of the Trans-Canada Highway, improving wildlife exclusion fencing in the park and road repairs along the Bow Valley Parkway.
“Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park, a flagship for Parks Canada’s system of protected areas and a world leader in tourism. With these investments, our Government will be creating and protecting jobs and opportunities while also renewing important infrastructure right here in Banff,” said Blake Richards, Member of Parliament for Wild Rose in a statement.
Established in 1885, Banff National Park is the most popular national park, hosting 3.6 million visitors every year.
“Our government is committed to protecting and restoring Canada’s natural and cultural treasures for present and future generations. Investments such as these will support the tourism industry and enhance visitor experience across Canada,” said Dr. Colin Carrie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment and MP for Oshawa in a statement.
Some of the improvements are already underway, others will take up to five years to complete.
With files from David Boushy
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