The iconic Banff sign is making a move and here's where it's going
Banff’s stunning scenery has earned it a spot as one of the most beautiful places on earth. So it’s no surprise the town draws a massive crowd.
Since 2017, visitors have been met with the iconic Banff sign when coming into the town on Norquay Road, but not for much longer.
The sign’s location has sparked concern with the town and local RCMP, and it is set to be on the move to a new home soon.
“Our RCMP has indicated that they are concerned with people stopping vehicles illegally on the side of the road, or in the middle of the road, to allow passengers to jump out and get in line for a photo. People walking amongst vehicles beside a main entrance road, even though it is 30 km/h, is dangerous,” said Jason Darrah, director of communications and marketing for the town of Banff.
While no incidents have occurred, they want to stay proactive and avoid any accidents ahead of time.
Omar Sherif/Daily Hive
After much deliberation and studying different locations, Banff’s town council decided on the Banff Train Station Lands to house the sign.
“The lease owners of the Train Station Lands, Jan and Adam Waterous, offered to take the sign and they offered to pay for the cost to build the foundations and transport the sign to the new location,” said Darrah.
The move is expected to happen this October. The new location is more pedestrian-friendly and is expected to encourage more visitors to park in the free parking lot beside the Train Station. There will also be some new features added to the Train Station Lands.
“The Waterous family, who are locals who also own the Mt. Norquay Ski & Sightseeing Resort, will build a parkette with benches and other amenities for visitors to enjoy,” said Darrah.
The Banff sign has become one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, and officials hope its new home will make photo ops safer for everyone.