Parks Canada has announced the launch of an international design competition, which will be overseen by the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada (RAIC), to develop a new conceptual design for the iconic 200-Block of Banff Avenue in Banff National Park.

200-Block is a series of 10 contiguous lots that includes Banff Avenue Park, the current visitor information centre and its associated parking, and two other buildings. The long-held vision for the 10 lots is that they would be revitalized to contain purpose-built spaces and facilities to support visitor reception, enjoyment and connection with the rest of the park, and foster understanding of the challenges faced by protected areas like Banff National Park.

The competition will be undertaken in accordance with the RAIC guidance for competitions in the country.

In order to be considered, the conceptual designs must incorporate extensive feedback received by Parks Canada through years-long Indigenous, public, and stakeholder engagement.