Editor:
I can’t say enough positive things about the Banff Avenue pedestrian zone. As a former resident and returning visitor of Banff, I have truly enjoyed experiencing the feeling of freedom as I walk down the middle of Banff Avenue, watching visitors and residents alike enjoy the openness and ease of a congestion-free space.
Prior to 2020, the summer months saw the sidewalks of Banff Avenue filled with visitors walking side by side, tripping on each other as they searched for gift shopping venues and eating establishments. The congestion of busy sidewalks spilling into vehicle traffic on Banff Avenue has continuously made this space a less pleasant experience for both visitors and community residents.
In recent years, opening the streets to walking, biking, patios and benches has helped spread people out, and in turn, created a very popular space for everyone to enjoy. Whether a visitor is stopping to take an iconic Banff Avenue street shot or a local resident is walking to work, there is room for all.
It’s clear that the Banff community needs to rethink transportation flow in the townsite. It is my understanding that this planning process is underway and includes the Banff Avenue pedestrian zone. Let’s keep the momentum going and the traffic flowing by following through on this process which will lead to a more sustainable solution for all.
The Banff community is faced with an important decision to make the Banff pedestrian zone a permanent fixture during the summer season. This forward thinking action will positively enhance the Banff Avenue experience for both community residents and visitors alike, for years to come.
Wendy Lash,
Innisfil, Ont.
