Parks Canada has engaged the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) to oversee an international design competition to develop a conceptual design for the 200-block of Banff Avenue Redevelopment Project.

“Parks Canada is pleased to announce our commitment to collaborate with the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada in launching a competitive design process for the revitalization of the 200-block of Banff Avenue. As members of the Banff community, the Parks Canada team looks forward to seeing the progression of this project and the ways it will create lasting opportunities and benefits to Indigenous peoples, visitors, and our vibrant local community,” said Salman Rasheed, Banff Field Unit superintendent.

The competition marks a crucial step towards a concept design — one that will not only honours the heritage of Canada’s first national park but also invite the world to experience the natural beauty and timeless wonder of the destination.

“This is a rare, once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine and transform a vital public space in Banff National Park. Parks Canada has listened to the voices of Indigenous communities, stakeholders, local residents, and Canadians from every corner of the country who all share a deep connection to the future of this remarkable place,” said Ron Hallman, president & chief executive officer, Parks Canada.

Concluding in March 2026, the design competition for the 200-Block of the Banff Avenue Redevelopment Project will follow established industry standards and protocols and bring professional expertise to the evaluation process to generate conceptual designs for the site.

The feedback gathered so far through engagement will be used to guide the design competition, as all applicants will need to ensure the values and vision shared by Indigenous communities, stakeholders, and the public are reflected in the conceptual design options that are developed.