It may take you a little extra time this year when you head out to Banff National Park. There are multiple road construction projects with most set to begin in 2023.

The Government of Canada announced earlier this year that there will be $71 million for priority projects set to take place in Kootenay, Yoho, Jasper, and Banff national parks.

The Lake Louise Drive rehabilitation and modernization project with an estimated price tag of $9.8 million will include the road being redesigned to accommodate transit infrastructure, private vehicles, and cyclists to safely move visitors to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

“This roadway hosts over one million vehicles each year, and new traffic control measures and road design for a variety of transportation options will provide safer access and improved visitor experience,” Parks Canada said.

Along with traffic improvements, this section of the road is an important wildlife corridor. The designs will include methods of improving habitat connectivity to allow for the safe movement of wildlife. 

Another project set to begin in 2023 will involve construction on two sections of the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park between Castle Junction and Lake Louise; this area of the road will undergo necessary roadway paving and other improvements, which could include fencing, retaining walls, culverts, and shoulder widening, as required. The estimated total for the project is $11.3 million.

One project will see an impact in both Banff and Jasper national parks with an Icefields Parkway/93 North roadway rehabilitation with an estimated price tag of $11.3 million.

“Canada’s national parks are core to our Canadian identity and to our tourism portfolio. Our government works with local Indigenous groups and rural communities to ensure that we provide visitors with high-quality experiences while protecting our natural wonders for future generations,” said Randy Boissonnault, minister of tourism, associate minister of finance and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre in a news release.

“Today’s investments will upgrade critical infrastructure in national parks across Canada, improving the quality of life for surrounding communities while keeping the parks safe and accessible all year round.”

You can check out the full list of projects here.

Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@strathmorenow.com