OREANDA-NEWS. September 05, 2016. Parks Canada’s places belong to all Canadians. They represent the very best that Canada has to offer and tell the stories of who we are, including the history, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.

The Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, today announced an additional \\$19.9 million for rehabilitation work along Highway 93 South in both Kootenay and Banff national parks to improve visitor safety and access along this busy transportation corridor.

The investment will be used to make significant improvements to sections of the 105 kilometres of Highway 93 South located in Kootenay National Park, which includes 10 kilometres located within Banff National Park. This project is a continuation of the work begun in September 2015 and will include climbing lane refinements, drainage and intersection improvements, slope stabilisation, paving, and other associated works.

Investments in visitor infrastructure – such as trails, visitor centres and campgrounds, as well as highways, parkways and bridges – will ensure the quality and reliability of visitor facilities and continue to allow Canadians to connect with nature.

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“The Government is committed to preserving our national parks, while enabling more Canadians to experience the outdoors and learn about our environment. Investments in the revitalization of federal infrastructure assets in national parks and historic sites benefit all Canadians. This additional funding of more than \\$19 million for this extensive highway improvement project in Kootenay and Banff national parks will ensure continued safe and high-quality visitor experiences, and contribute to the local economy.”

The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada

Quick facts

  • In the 1920s, it took a full day to drive from Banff to Radium Hot Springs. The Banff-Windermere Highway, as it was known then, was praised for being so safe that “fear was practically eliminated”. Today, a scenic drive along Highway 93 south remains one of the most popular ways to experience Kootenay National Park.
  • Kootenay’s 1,406 km2 and Banff’s 6,641 km2 are part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site – one of the largest contiguous protected areas in the world.
  • Infrastructure projects in the mountain national park roadways and facilities contribute to improved visitor experiences. Be sure to plan ahead and check www.511.alberta.ca or www.drive.bc for current roadway delays or visit a mountain park website.
  • The Government of Canada is investing an unprecedented \\$3 billion dollars over 5 years to support infrastructure work to heritage, visitor, waterway and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas.