DRAFT Recreation Facilities Master Plan by Town of Banff

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Recreation Facility Master Plan

September 23, 2013

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1.1 Vision

1.2 Introduction

1.3 SWOT Analysis Overview 7 1.4 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objective

2 Indoor 2 2.1 Current Inventory 3 2.2 SWOT table 4 2.3 Benchmarking table 5 2.4 Map 2.5 Recommendations 6 2.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives 7

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3 Parks and Playing Fields 3.1 Current Inventory 3.2 SWOT table 3.3 Benchmarking table 3.4 Maps 3.5 Recommendations 3.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

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8 9 10 11 12 13

4 Trails 4.1 Current Inventory 4.2 SWOT table 4.3 Maps 4.4 Recommendations 4.5 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

14 15 17 18 19

5 Playgrounds 5.1 Current Inventory 5.2 SWOT table 5.3 Benchmarking table 5.4 Maps 5.5 Recommendations 5.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

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6 Apendix 6.1 First Survey Results 6.2 Open House Boards 6.3 Second Survey Results

27 28 29

1.1 Vision In Banff, Everyone Gets to Play

Banff is synonymous with mountain recreation and natural beauty. People come from around the world to explore the national park, hike, cycle, mountaineer, ski and camp. Residents are drawn by an active lifestyle in a small, Canadian community and the proximity to the worldclass, protected mountain environment. Preserving and enhancing this experience, providing quiet spaces of respite and bustling areas that connect one to the environment, to the national park, or to the community – are key to achieving Banff ’s vision for the future: a healthy community and a place of inspiration, enchantment and renewal.

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Recreation and leisure are woven throughout Banff ’s rich history. Faded black and white photographs depict locals curling, skating or picnicking along the Bow River or posing in front of the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Park Pavilion at the athletic grounds. Ski runs were cut into Mt. Norquay in 1926, and hockey tournaments dominated the annual winter festival. Visitors enjoyed golf and swimming at the Banff Springs Hotel. Fishing, hiking, boating on the river or on Lake Minnewanka or hiking up Tunnel Mountain were all favorites. Sports moved indoors and became year-round activities when facilities such as the old curling rink and hockey rink opened.

The sheer variety of recreational opportunities for all abilities and ages, and the choice of pace, is a keystone of Banff ’s tourism experience. It’s also the standard for Banff residents, and programs such as KidSport, Every Senior Gets to Play, and Sports Equipment Lending, ensure affordability and access.

Throughout the decades, as Banff has matured and demographics shift to more diverse ethnicity, as technology and trends change, the community has evaluated inventory, assessed needs and built upon the recreational opportunities within the townsite. They provided feedback to Parks Canada on the opportunities in the national park, for both residents and visitors. They envisioned the future of a town with parks, fields, trails, playgrounds and indoor spaces. This recreation facilities master plan is the community’s latest evaluation of resources and needs for the next decade. Led by the Town of Banff, the plan encompasses all the current inventory in the community, be it public, partner, private and neighbouring facilities. Shaped by Banff ’s unique constraints and opportunities, it describes a future where all recreational facilities are used by more people, in more seasons. And it offers the recommended steps to achieve it. The vision for recreation in Banff reflects the overall vision for a healthy community and a place of enchantment: well-used facilities, accessible to all and adaptable to a multitude of uses; a thriving community mixing with visitors in a broad range of activities, year round; well-connected trails, dotted with visitors and locals who leave their vehicles behind to interact with the world around them. In Banff, everyone gets to play near their home.

1.2 Introduction This Recreation Facility Master Plan, developed to help achieve the recreational objectives outlined in the Banff Community Plan, and form the future of the community’s parks, fields, playgrounds, trails and indoor facilities, began with a Town Council and staff workshop on current realities and opportunities. Seven guiding principles were formed: • Increase the use of recreational facilities, parks and trails (Banff Community Plan objective) • Maximize municipal facility access potential; multi-season, day and evening • Increase operating cost recovery • A comparable local inventory of facilities (including private and other agencies) to other communities • A planned but flexible system of open spaces, trails, and parks • Recreational facilities that also appeal to visitors and events • New Town indoor facilities will follow Municipal Sustainable Building policy

Banff’s Community Plan, adopted in 2008, contains these objectives for recreation facilities: • Improve the quality, quantity and access to social programs, recreation, education and cultural facilities. • Implement an active living program that educates and encourages healthy lifestyles. • Build a system of open spaces, trails and parks that reinforce connections to the natural environment. • Increase the use of Banff parks and trails. • Develop and implement a town-wide wayfinding plan that is simple and graphically representative of our sense of place. • Collaborate with partners to maximize resources and infrastructure available for community use. • Co-operate with other levels of government and agencies to achieve goals.

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It was generally agreed, that while Banff ’s inventory is already considered good, over time steps can be taken to modify arrangements, retrofit spaces, expand partnerships, and better realize the potential of the recreational facilities in and around the community.

According to the Canadian National Recreation Statement, published by the Interprovincial Sport and Recreation Council, “the basic role of the municipality is to ensure the availability of the broadest range of recreation opportunities for every individual and group consistent with available community resources.” While municipal government has a key role to play, it states, it is by no means the only provider of recreation opportunities. As indicated in the Community Plan, nonprofit organizations, other levels of government (locally the Canadian Rockies Public Schools (CRPS), The Banff Centre, and Parks Canada), and the private sector are significant providers in Banff ’s inventory of recreation facilities. The Town’s position is ideal to serve as a coordinator to maximize use of existing resources, to lead joint planning, act as an information and programming coordinator, and to undertake an evaluation of recreation opportunities offered by all groups and agencies.

Beyond a healthy participation rate in traditional parks and recreation activities, Banff is internationally known as a service centre for outdoor enthusiasts including hikers, skiers, picnickers, campers, cyclists, and many others. This Recreation Facilities Master Plan seeks to evaluate parks and recreation facilities within the unique context of Banff townsite and its current (2013) inventory, which includes partner, private, and neighbouring facilities. Relevant and relatively unique considerations for this study have included: • The Town is wholly surrounded by the outdoor activity opportunities of Banff National Park. • The Town is spatially growth limited to just 4km2 by the boundaries set in 1998. Most land is now fully developed, meaning that recreational facilities and fields may need to redevelop, reconfigure, or become multi-use (seasonal or otherwise) in order to accommodate new activities. • Due to the large tourism service industry, the town is demographically young, with the 20-34 age group representing 40% of the population. Many of these people work evenings and weekends. • As commercial (employer) growth is capped, and there are residency restrictions, it is expected that the population will not exceed 10,000. • Banff ’s sole industry, tourism, brings spikes of visitors in summer and on weekends. Some recreational facilities such as picnic shelters are heavily used by visitors. Athletic events based within the townsite are also increasing in frequency. • The Town of Canmore, 24 km east (and now served by public transit from Banff ) offers many of the same recreational activities as Banff, boasts a world-class Nordic Centre, and has recently opened a large indoor recreational facility that includes swimming pools and climbing walls. To the west is the hamlet of Lake Louise, offering world-class downhill skiing, hiking, and cross country trails. • Banff ’s community has seen changes to its multicultural make-up in recent years. More than a quarter of the people who have moved to Banff in the past five years came from outside Canada [Banff Census 2011]. Currently the schools have approximately 30% of their students from outside of Canada. Approximately 1,000 immigrants make up 12% of the population according to the last census that collected this data in 2007 (it is expected that this figure has grown). In recent years, many have originated from The Philippines and India. From the Town’s work with this demographic, there can be differences in use of recreation facilities, physical activity & unfamiliarity with facilities located in an outdoor setting. • Banff ’s montane climate with a relatively short summer season.

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For discussion and analysis, Banff recreation facilities have been grouped into Indoor, Parks and Fields, Trails, and Playgrounds. Public Consultation Public feedback was sought through media and three open houses. Feedback was generated through an initial survey, and then a later survey specifically on the draft recommendations. Facility inventory, data collection, community consultation, mapping, and report formatting were completed in-house by the Town of Banff. A consultant helped to assess the current facility offering, analyse current and forecasted needs, and then recommend enhancements and steps to achieve the objectives. This is a guidance document that recognizes some changes to the current inventory may be beyond the Town’s control. An implementation strategy will inform capital budget considerations for the 10- year period from 2014 – 2024, and potential facility specific plans for trails and the Recreation Grounds.

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1.3 S.W.O.T Analysis

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OVERVIEW / KEY ISSUES STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

• Abundant outdoor recreation opportunities in the surrounding National Park • Young, active community • Community has a rich heritage and well established tourism industry • Predictable population growth and recreation demands • Exciting influx of diverse populations • Influx of tourists has led to benefits of a wide range of recreational facilities that a similar small town may not have • Well established facility partnerships include Parks Canada, The Banff Springs, The Banff Centre, Canadian Rockies Public Schools, and the Town of Canmore

• The community is unfamiliar with the opportunities available • Limited use data for some activities and for activities taking place at partner facilities • Limited land base - constraints on forms of development, limits to new resources (tax base from population growth)

OPPORTUNITY

THREATS

• Maximize efficient use of space (facilities, scheduling) • Maximize access to free / flexible recreation opportunities • Adjust hours of operation to ensure access by service industry employees • Partnerships: primary employers, School District, Parks Canada, Canmore • Parks Canada’s new focus on visitor experience and education • Canmore’s new facility will provide new opportunities for swimming, indoor climbing, and other indoor recreation programs

• Cost and time are significant barriers for many in service industry • Many families have parents with 2-3 jobs, long hours • Scheduling: Participation during evenings, weekends and holidays may be limited for many residents (service industry employees) • Hockey and Rugby have high travel time requirements for games; contributes to costs as well. • Canmore’s new facility may draw users from existing facilities in Banff

1.4 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

RECOMMENDATIONS

tili zat He ion l p acc s i act ess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc g ra n a rea ms nd ses an op d era tin gc os Ad tr d ec be res ov nc se ery hm s d ark efi c s o ien r s cie tan s b Co da as rds ed fun ntri on cti but on es al t o pa rks a fle an xibl d t e, Im rai mu ev prov ls s ltien es yst th a em p os tin peal g for vis ito Ad rs dre an df sse or sp ub lic fee db Ad ack or dres /d loc se em al s cu an tre rr d nd en s in t n rec atio rea nal, tio pro n vin cia l,

pro ve s

fac ilit

PARTNERSHIPS

PLAN OBJECTIVES

Parks Canada: The overlapping interests are outdoor recreation and tourism related services. Strategic priorities are the coordination of trail planning and way-finding/interpretation installations; use of Park headquartersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; grounds for community green space; and improving municipal park facilities such as picnic tables, washrooms, playgrounds, etc.; and developing mountain biking, cross country, and hiking trails. CRPS: The overlapping interests are recreation facilities, adult education programming and child and family wellness. The strategic priorities are the enhancement of the outdoor ice rink amenities; expanded use of school spaces for community programming; coordination of booking and tracking of community recreation use; and potentially reciprocal access to municipal rec facilities (e.g. ice, playing fields) for school physical education classes and intermural sports. Banff Centre and major hotels: Shared interests in tourism, events and active living opportunities and promotion. The strategic focus should be on facility access, scheduling, co-promotion, and potential reciprocity agreements. Town of Canmore: The recreation services of the respective municipalities serve the recreational needs of their combined population. The strategic focus should be on coordinating programming options and scheduling and maintenance closures to minimize gaps and overlaps. As well, formal reciprocity agreements on access and fees would benefit both communities.

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(helps identify deficiencies)

RECOMMENDATIONS

Institute annual (or biannual) meetings with groups of representative users of different facilities. This should include Recreation Grounds users, 101 Bear users, and Fenlands users.

Establish a baseline of user data so that trends can be tracked, use of facilities can be measured quantitatively, and strategies can be developed to improve use.

Facilitate communication for informal activities, hiking and biking groups, and hobbyists. Different strategies could include online bulletin boards; physical notice boards at the Fenlands, 101 Bear Street, and the post office; “meet-ups” in the spring and fall (or at the start of the summer sports season). Improving communication of these informal activities can help new residents meet people, enable people to try new activities, foster informal “mentorships”, and can even be the seed for a new community organization or program

on He acc lps i act ess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc g ra n a rea ms nd ses an d op era tin gc os tr Ad ec d ov be res ery nc se hm s d ark efi s o cien r s cie tan s b da as Co rds ed n on fun tri cti but on es al pa to a rks fle an xibl d t e, Im rai mu p ls s ltir an ov yst d f es em or a e v ppe en al t h for os tin visit g or Ad s de dres ma se nd s p ub lic fee db ack Ad / d pro res s v e rec inc s rea ial, cur tio or ren n loc t n al atio tre na nd l, s in

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MARKETING + COMMUNICATIONS

PLAN OBJECTIVES

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(helps identify deficiencies)

2 Indoor 2.1 Current Inventory

2.2 SWOT table

2.3 Benchmarking table

2.4 Map

2.5 Recommendations

2.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

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PLAY / FITNESS / LEISURE RECREATION

tic av ipa ai tio la n bl d Pa e at a da rti ta cip so at ur ion ce

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tio n Lo ca

Community

Private

Municipal

Limited Public

Squirrel st.

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Town

Municipal

Limited Public

Core

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Public

Tunnel Mtn

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Private

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Yes

Core

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Core

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Industrial

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Public

Tunnel Mtn

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Public

Spray Ave

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Public

Sulphur

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Elite Fitness

Private

Public

Core

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Rocky Mountain Resort

Private

Public

Adjacent

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Elevation Place

Municipal

Public

Regional

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Town

Cross Fit

Private

Public

Industrial

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

O Municipal

Municipal

Public

The Fenlands

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs Cabin

Municipal

Gymnasiums

Elementary School

Provincial

High School

Provincial

Sally Borden

Private

St. George’s Scout Hall Dance Studio Sally Borden Banff Springs Rimrock Hotel

Private

Core

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Town

Fenlands

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Town

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D Private

Pa r

Year-Round

Senior Centre

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Middle Springs

M ai

Public

Community Centres

Fitness facilities

b us ilit e yf or

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Municipal

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ity

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2.1 Current indoor facility inventory

ICE & SNOW WATER COURT

Yoga/Pilates

Yoga Studio

Private

Public

Core

Year-Round

Community

Yes

LuluLemon

Private

Public

Core

Year-Round

Community

N/A

Sally Borden

Private

Public

Tunnel Mountain

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Banff Springs

Private

Public

Spray Avenue

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Bowling Alley

Banff Springs Hotel

Private

Public

Spray Ave.

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Private

Arenas

The Fenlands

Municipal

Public

Fenlands

Fall-WinterSpring

Regional

Yes

Town

Canmore Arena

Municipal

Public

Canmore

Regional

Yes

Town

Curling Rink

The Fenlands

Municipal

Public

Fenlands

Winter

Regional

Yes

Canmore

Municipal

Public

Canmore

Winter

Regional

Yes

Indoor Swimming

Sally Borden

Private

Public

Banff Centre

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Banff Springs

Private

Public

Spray Ave

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Elevation Place

Municipal

Public

Regional

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Rimrock Restort

Private

Public

Sulphur

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Rocky Mountain Resort

Private

Public

Adjacent

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Outdoor Swimming

Banff Springs

Private

Public

Spray Ave

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Banff Hot Springs

Federal

Private

Public

Adjacent

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Waterslide

Douglas Fir

Private

Public

Tunnel Mtn

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Elevation Place

Municipal

Public

Regional

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Climbing Wall

Sally Borden

Private

Public

Tunnel Mtn.

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Private

Elevation Place

Municipal

Public

Regional

Year-Round

Regional

Yes

Town

Squash

Rimrock Restort

Private

Public

Sulphur

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

Rocky Mountain Resort

Private

Public

Adjacent

Year-Round

Community

Yes

Private

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D 2.2 S.W.O.T Analysis

THE FENLANDS BANFF RECREATION CENTRE STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

OPPORTUNITY

THREATS

• Newly constructed / good condition • Adequate provision for ice sport demand and visitor tournament events

• Current space configuration geared towards winter sports, rinks & curling and limited summer use as a result • Low percentage of multifunctional spaces • Poor pedestrian/bike access and lighting • Not performing as a central, complete community centre • Not located in a central location: located away from town and across the railway tracks

• The facility has operated for 2 to 3 years and Town staff have a good idea of which spaces are underutilized • There is potential to improve cost recovery for underutilized spaces • There are opportunities for revenue generation to support operating costs • There are opportunities to add informal gathering areas and boost casual use of the facility as a community centre • Conceptual plans exist for future additions: gymnasium, weight room, community program space, community kitchen, leisure pool • Future transit service

• Land constraints make expansion costly • To accommodate new and different users, displacement or reduction in services or amenities would be likely • Adding some new uses would require additional capital investment

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101 BEAR STREET

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STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

OPPORTUNITY

THREATS

• Serves seniors well • Central location with many complementary uses

• Parent Link program is at capacity and is in need of more space • Facility is not staffed, so it’s difficult to manage bookings and track actual use • Many of the rooms have a single user group

• Potential exists to improve and increase use of the facility by increasing sharing of rooms • Redevelopment of the site with better multifunctional spaces and expanded uses (long-term)

• To accommodate new and different users, displacement or reduction in services or amenities would be likely • If redevelopment occurs, existing users would be displaced, temporarily suspending some services

POOLS STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

OPPORTUNITY

THREATS

• Several private pools provide public access (also a water slide) • Private provision of pool access saves the Town substantial capital and operating costs.

• There may be limited access to lessons (potential limits to access include cost and amenities for elderly/disabled) • Lack of a coordinated effort between the Town of Banff and the Banff Centre to track use and seek ways to improve access • Existing pools at Banff Centre and Banff Springs Hotel do not have lazy river or “play” features (indoor or outdoor)

• Town could partner with existing providers to expand services/ facilities/access for a lower cost than developing a new, separate facility • Canmore Elevation Place may boost the availability of swimming lessons, lap swim availability and other aquatic programs

• There is a limited formal agreement for public access with the Banff Centre • Public access at Banff Springs Hotel is at the discretion of the owner/ operator • Pools are highly subsidized facilities. No recovery of capital investment should be anticipated and only a portion of the operating costs are likely to be covered by fees and charges

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CANADIAN ROCKIES PUBLIC SCHOOLS STRENGTHS • Gymnasiums are available for evening and weekend recreation by user groups • Classrooms are available for booking by the public • Town of Banff currently utilizes school district facilities for recreation programs

WEAKNESSES

• Lack of municipal gymnasium limits access and programming options • Lack of a coordinated effort between the Town of Banff and the School District to manage booking of facilities, to track use, and seek ways to improve access • School uses take priority and limit the available programming hours

OPPORTUNITY • Could partner for future program development opportunities • Potential for joint booking and coordinated use tracking • Potential to increase marketing and use of the School District facilities

THREATS • Indoor facilities are only available outside of regular school hours • School uses take priority and access is at the discretion of the School District

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2.3 Benchmarking Table

Recreation Facility

North American Standards

Other Industry Standards

Alberta ExamplesF

Current Banff level of serviceG

0.104

0.243

0.485

0.607

0.364

Arena Ice Sheets ( /1000 residents)

0.0118C

0.100

Curling Sheets ( /1000 residents)

(recorded as rinks)

0.219

0.122

0.030

Indoor leisure pools ( /1000 residents) Indoor fitness facilities ( /1000 residents) Indoor gymnasium (including schools) ( /1000 residents) Multi-purpose rooms/indoor program rooms (/1000 residents) Municipal Recreation Centre ( /1000 residents)

0.045B

Swimming pools (i.e. lap swimming)

0.025B 0.030C

Recreation - % of Total Expenditures

0.034

0.033

0.070

0.084

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0.040

0.121

15.23%

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(quantity of facilities)

0.0223

0.025B 0.030C

Current Banff inventory

Comparable sized Western Canadian communitiesE

A. Evergreen (2004). Green Space Acquisition and Stewardship in Canada’s Urban Municipalities: Results of a Nation-wide Survey. Retrieved from evergreen.ca/docs/res/Green-Space-Canada-Survey.pdf B. The Trust for Public Land: surveys in the 100 largest US Cities. Does not count private tennis, swimming or other clubs. C. NRPA Standard - 2012 Data D. City of Waterloo Standard E. Based on communities of 4500 - 10,000 residents F. Based on 16 Alberta communities (public facilities only): Airdrie, Grand Prairie, Lethbridge, Lloydminster, Red Deer, Strathcona County, St. Albert, Tri Municipal Region, Medicine Hat, Morinville, Cochrane, Brooks, Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc, Okotoks, and Stony Plain G. Indoor Fitness Facilities and Swimming Pools include public and private facilities, but not the Canmore Facility H. Industry standard definition for “neighbourhood park” identifies service area of 1/4 mile or 5 min walking distance

Over/under supply measure

Exceeds all standards shown

= above standards = below standards

2.4 Town of Banff indoor facility map ve kA H aw

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Ot ter S

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Ba nff Av e

Ma rte nS

Ho rn St Sq uir rel St

Big

Antelope St

Mo o St se

Wolf St

Otter St

Muskrat St

Beaver St

Caribou St

Ave

Banff Ave

Grizzly St

Banff Community High School n lie Ju St-

B ow

ibou Car t S

e Av nff a B

Wolverine

M nel T un

id ge

H id den R

x St L yn

E lk

Wolf St

St gar u Co

ot rm Ma

Banff Elementary School

er De

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Goph er St

en St M art

Pika Pl

ot rm Ma

E lk

F ox

d ve yA wa l i Ra

Cougar St

it bb Ra t S

R ay rqu No

tion rea re Rec Cent d R

ine cup Por Pl

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The Fenlands

Rd tain oun

nel T un

D ain unt o M

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Buffalo St

StJul ien

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Dr B irc h Ave B irch

t n lie -Ju St

e Av en Gl

ew rvi ve t i R C

Cave Ave

oS ffal Bu

Sundance Rd

101 Bear Street

Ko ot en ay

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w Bo

Ave anni D r N aKh lu an e Dr

Ave

Su lph Ct ur

Spring s Dr

n ai nt u o

len G e Av ay Spr

Gla cie r

M iddle

The Banff Centre

Park Ave

Jasp er W y

Falls A ve

Indoor Facilities Town Boundary

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Sp ra y

Town of Banff Indoor Facility Locations

Disclaimer The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

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Date Created: 9/5/2013 2:40:56 PM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: Indoor_Outdoor_Facilities

2.5 Recommendations

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Indoor recreation facilities

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The main focus of the indoor recreation facilities review was to assess and improve the functionality of both municipally owned and partner facilities, while increasing cost recovery, and the range of uses that can be accommodated. The evaluation also included a comparison of the Town of Banff inventory with North American provision standards, average provision by similar sized Western Canadian communities and the provision of other Alberta communities. Recommendations were developed in relation to these benchmarks, as well as in relation to the principles developed by the Town of Banff to guide this master plan process, which include: • Increase the use of recreational facilities, parks and trails (Banff Community Plan) • Maximize municipal facilities access potential; multi-season, day and evening • Increase operating cost recovery • A comparable local inventory of recreational facilities (including private and other agencies) to other communities • A planned but flexible system of open spaces, trails and parks • Recreational facilities that also appeal to visitors and can host local and non-local events • New Town indoor facilities will follow Municipal Sustainable Building policy

The Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre

The Fenlands is well regarded by its community; the only substantive issue evident from the public questionnaire is the lack of programming diversity. Planning should be undertaken to explore what can be addressed in the short term with the existing space and what should be prioritized in future capital initiatives. Recent cost recovery analysis for The Fenlands completed by Town staff shows a cost recovery of only 30% of the total operating expenses and approximately 50% if the amortization is excluded. Based on professional knowledge, publicly operated arenas typically recover anywhere from 50% to 60% of their operating costs. There are some initial recommendations regarding the facility itself, but other issues such as a review of fees and charges and a full evaluation of programming (existing and potential) are beyond the scope of this plan.

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Overall recommendations • Undertake a detailed analysis of fees and charges, programming, cost recovery issues, and potential strategies for increasing use, particularly dry floor and summertime uses. Review and adjust fees and charges on an annual basis, if necessary. • Work with facility management to improve access for non-ice users by minimizing conversion times between ice and dry floor conditions. • Work with concessionaire to better serve Arena 2 and other areas of the building, as necessary. • Develop the Mezzanine. Potential uses include exercise machines or a children’s play area. • Consider the creation of an outdoor play area to enhance The Fenlands as a multipurpose recreation centre.

Concourse

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This space provides an informal gathering area for the community, which is an important function within a recreation facility. It also holds potential for the hosting of events. However it is currently an under utilized space, especially outside of winter. Recommendations • Enhance the area through the addition of comfortable seating and tables. • Add window coverings and display space to allow for presentations and displays.

Photos in this margin

Ice arenas and curling (dry floor)

Banff has more than twice the per capita supply of ice sheets and curling sheets compared with other Alberta communities. The percent of peak hours booked is 74% (regional median = 78%), while the percent of offpeak hours booked is 32% (regional median = 37%). The curling league currently takes place three nights a week in the winter. The ice sheets are available for dry floor use in the summer months, but are not yet well used.

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Recommendations • Expand the dry floor uses, possibly by shortening the curling season. Programs could include ball hockey, roller derby, indoor soccer, box lacrosse, badminton, gymnastics, dodge ball, dance, wrestling, concerts, garage sales, youth dances, dog training, bicycle training and safety, summer markets, inflatable playgrounds, and summer camps. Events with large parking requirements which do not need to be centrally located in the Town would be appropriate for this location. • Search for opportunities to generate more revenue.

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Meeting rooms and offices

The meeting rooms are currently under utilized despite marketing and outreach efforts. Some of the other rooms that could be used for recreation programming are occupied by storage and offices for the Banff Hockey Academy. Recommendations • Retrofit at least one meeting room to accommodate fitness programs, dance or martial arts on a more athletic/versatile floor • Other options include adding amenities for arts and crafts activities or children’s play. • Evaluate the potential to convert other existing single-use rooms, including BHA rooms, to multipurpose rooms if there are program gaps that could be filled through this process.

101 Bear Street

101 Bear Street is a municipal facility strategically located near the centre of town, next to Central Park, in an institutional precinct with the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, the Banff Park Museum, public library and the post office. The facility has rooms of various sizes, including a main hall with a capacity of 100 persons. A range of activities take place there, including Parent Link, various fitness classes and BanffLife (young adult) pasta nights, in addition to the core seniors’ programs. Recommendations • The Facility should be renamed from the Seniors’ Centre, signed and marketed to be reflective of its diverse uses so that there is improved community knowledge of potential uses. • Evaluate the potential to convert existing single-use rooms, including rooms currently dedicated exclusively to seniors programming, to multipurpose rooms and determine which program gaps could be filled through this process. • Recreation Services staff should meet with facility user group stakeholders on a quarterly basis regarding programming and scheduling to ensure equitable allocation of space and to help inform ongoing improvements to meet changing needs. • There should be a designated staff liaison to 101 Bear Street and, in the longer term, part or full time staffing at the facility (possibly through the relocation of Banff Life staff ). Onsite staff would contribute significantly to understanding the day-to-day operations of a facility and provide a community contact for improved service and site access. • In the long-term, a major renovation or replacement of the facility should be considered in order to expand the potential uses. A redeveloped facility could better capitalize on the location within Banff ’s civic hub by finding synergies between the other civic and cultural features nearby and by providing new recreation opportunities, when they are identified. • Provide additional space for the ParentLink program. This could be accommodated by repurposing some of the 101 Bear Street programming spaces in the short-term. However, in the long-term, an improved purpose-built space should be considered through the redevelopment of 101 Bear or a separate facility.

A R

T F

Canadian Rockies Public Schools

The Town hosts general interest evening and weekend programming in languages and arts classes in the Banff Community High School (BCHS) classrooms, along with evening and weekend sports and exercise classes in the gymnasiums. The facilities can also be booked directly through the BCHS. Specific use data was not available at the time of writing, but there may be potential for expanded programming – especially evening gym sports such as basketball, volleyball and floor hockey. Recommendations • Work with the CRPS to: • Keep better records of participation • Coordinate booking • Find potential for accommodating more programs • Within a larger assessment of programming and community facilities, coordinate with CRPS to address gaps and barriers. There may be benefits to implementing a coordinated booking system to enable the municipality to track the use of these facilities, as well as to provide a single location for community members to find out about the available facilities.

The Banff Centre

A R

T F

The Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre (Sally Borden) at The Banff Centre is a comprehensive recreation facility which includes fitness centre, climbing gym, gymnasium and an aquatic centre. Public access is granted through both memberships and drop-in options. Members can book the gymnasium for an hour during certain times. There are also massage and physiotherapy services offered at market rates. Sally Borden is an excellent resource that contributes significantly to available recreation opportunities for the entire community. There were many comments from the public consultation regarding the desire for a pool and gymnasium other than The Banff Centre, but the only specific barrier that emerged was the lack of transportation and safe pedestrian/bike access to the facility.

Recommendations • Partner with The Banff Centre to identify specific gaps in services or facilities currently available at Sally Borden. This assessment should include public consultation, as well as a specific facility and program inventory and assessment. • Partner with The Banff Centre to strategize ways in which the Town can help to address gaps in service identified through the assessment. These could include providing financial support for more pool staff, or contributing to additional program offerings (including free public swims or events) or expanded hours of operation. • Specifically regarding a pool: Due to the existing pool at Sally Borden and the high financial burden of building and operating such a facility, consider a capital contribution for pool upgrades to enhance accessibility and serve a broader range of users at the existing facility (including ramp/ wheelchair lift, larger leisure pool, etc.)

Future indoor recreation facility planning

The public questionnaire suggests that there is public interest in additional indoor recreation facilities. Numerous factors should be considered in determining whether or not to build these new facilities, either as new standalone facilities or as an expansion to the Fenlands. The suggested main four factors are discussed below.

1) Public desire for specific facilities

T F

An online public questionnaire and stakeholder feedback form was used to gauge community interest regarding recreation facilities. The feedback highlighted the desire for the following components: • a pool • gymnasium • fitness centre • family/children’s play area • facilities for arts and crafts

A R

Each of these areas are currently provided in the community by the municipality, CRPS, The Banff Centre, and/or in the private sector. However, there is a community perception that the existing facilities and programs are inadequate. Recommendation • Gather additional information to determine what gaps and barriers exist in programming and amenities that are leading to public dissatisfaction with the existing facilities in the community. Examples of gaps that may exist include programming deficiencies (not enough, wrong times, missing programs, etc.), cost barriers, a lack of specific facility amenities or components to support programming (diving board, gymnasium amenities, entry level vs. advanced skill facilities) or other issues.

2) Available capacity and opportunities at existing facilities in the community

Based on the analysis of gaps and barriers from a public opinion point of view, as described above, determine whether those issues can be addressed through changes or modifications to the existing community-wide facilities and program offerings. Recommendations: • Update and improve the existing recreation tracking system (ActiveNet/CLASS) to include more information on current utilization, as well as potential strategies for tracking use of facilities that aren’t booked (i.e. basketball court at the Recreation Grounds). • The Town of Banff should lead the way for the community as a whole by coordinating ongoing data collection and analysis for facilities and programs offered not only by the municipality, but by the School District, The Banff Centre, and private facilities so that public demands for recreation facilities and programs can be met in a coordinated and efficient manner. • Strategize ways in which to address the identified gaps and barriers by actively supporting and contributing to the enhancement of existing facilities and programming throughout the community before planning additional new municipal facilities (see Recommendations regarding The Banff Centre).

T F

A R

3) Impact of Canmore’s Elevation Place

Canmore’s new Elevation Place is a community centre with an aquatic centre, climbing gym, library, fitness centre, child minding, art gallery and multipurpose rooms. It has significant programming capacity and provides most of the indoor facilities requested in the Banff public questionnaire. It will take time for the impact of Elevation Place on the use of the Banff recreation facilities to be evident, and Town staff should initiate sharing of facility assessment and use data.

The issue of access to this facility is likely a primary reason why Banff residents would like the same amenities closer to home. The public questionnaire revealed that key barriers to participation are a lack of time and high costs. From that perspective, it should be recognized that there will be barriers to the use of Elevation Place for some Banff residents. In terms of access and scheduling, the facility is a 20 minute drive or 25 minute bus ride from Banff. For example, current buses run hourly. To go for a fitness class by bus, for example, would require a minimum of 2 hours (1 hour total on the bus, 1 hour class), but in reality would likely be closer to 3 when including bus schedules and wait times. The cost of access is also a concern. An individual day pass is significant at $15, compared with a day pass at The Banff Centre ($10). The price point for fitness classes at Elevation Place is around $10. The Banff Centre offers fitness classes for $6 and yoga for $10. For many this would be in addition to the cost of the bus ($10-12 round trip).

Recommendations: • If possible, coordinate with Elevation Place staff to track the use of the facility by Banff residents for different programs and memberships, ideally including demographic information. • If deemed necessary to improve overall participation, consider strategies to reduce barriers to access through subsidies, reciprocal use agreements, increased transit service or other collaborative efforts with the Town of Canmore.

4) Business case analysis

In considering any potential new indoor recreation facilities or amenities, the Townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to afford the capital costs and ongoing maintenance costs will be a primary concern. The results of the discussion above will help decision making by establishing a clear need for additional services. It should also be used to ensure that other options for meeting community needs have been exhausted. If the decision is made to begin planning for additions to the Fenlands, a business case analysis should be undertaken early on. A business case analysis will establish the expected long term capital and operating expenses, the cost recovery potential, and thus the expected municipal subsidy in the short and long term. The analysis should also include long-term replacement costs.

T F

Recommendation: â&#x20AC;˘ Undertake a detailed business case analysis for any potential new recreation facilities to ensure long-term financial sustainability. â&#x20AC;˘ In addition to The Fenlands, indoor recreation programs are available at the Community High School and Elementary School, 101 Bear Street, The Banff Centre, and at various private sector facilities. A wide range of recreation opportunities are provided through these additional facilities. On the down side, the decentralization of facilities and program offerings can result in difficulty communicating what is available, where and when.

A R

T F

A R

2.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan objectives

RECOMMENDATIONS

Work with the concessionaire to serve Arena 2 or other areas in the Fenlands, as necessary. Develop the Mezzanine. Potential uses include exercise machines or a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area. Consider the creation of an outdoor play area to enhance The Fenlands as a multipurpose recreation centre. Enhance the concourse with the addition of comfortable seating with tables, display space, and window coverings to allow for presentations. Expand dry floor uses (such as indoor soccer) in both summer and shoulder seasons, possibly by shortening the curling season. Consider retrofitting the meeting rooms in order to expand the range of potential users: Retrofit at least one meeting room to accommodate dance or martial arts on athletic floor

on He acc lps i act ess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc gra n a rea ms nd ses an d op era tin gc os tr Ad ec d ov be res ery nc se hm s d ark efi s o cien r s cie tan s b da a s Co rds ed n on fun tri cti but on es al pa to a rks fle an xibl d t e, Im rai mu p ls s ltir an ov yst d f es em or a e v ppe en al t h for os tin visit g or Ad s de dres ma se nd s p ub lic fee db ack Ad / d pro res s v e rec inc s rea ial, cur tio or ren n loc t n al atio tre na nd l, s in

zat i yu tili fac ilit pro ve s Im

THE FENLANDS Undertake a detailed analysis of fees and charges, programming, cost recovery issues and potential strategies for increasing use, particularly dry floor and summertime uses. Review and adjust fees and charges on an annual basis, if necessary. Work with facility management to improve access by minimizing conversion times between ice and dry floor conditions.

PLAN OBJECTIVES

A R

D x x x

T F

x x

Other options include adding amenities for arts and crafts activities or childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play.

Evaluate the potential to convert existing single-use rooms, including BHA rooms, to multipurpose rooms and determine which program gaps could be filled through this process.

x x

RECOMMENDATIONS

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101 BEAR STREET

PLAN OBJECTIVES

The Facility should be renamed from Seniorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Centre, signed and marketed to be reflective of its diverse uses.

Evaluate the potential to convert existing single-use rooms, including rooms currently dedicated exclusively to seniors programming, to multipurpose rooms and determine which program gaps could be filled through this process.

A R

T F

Recreation Services staff should meet with facility user group stakeholders on a quarterly basis regarding programming and scheduling.

There should be a designated staff liaison to 101 Bear and, in the longer term, part or full time staffing at the facility (possibly through the relocation of Banff Life staff ).

In the long-term, a major renovation or replacement of the facility should be considered in order to expand the potential uses.

Provide additional space for the Parent Link program. This could be accommodated by repurposing some of the 101 Bear Street programming spaces in the short-term. However, in the long-term, an improved purpose-built space should be considered through the redevelopment of 101 Bear or within an expansion of the Fenlands.

x x

RECOMMENDATIONS

BANFF CENTRE / SALLY BORDEN Within a larger assessment of programming and community facilities, coordinate with the School District to address gaps and barriers.

Partner with The Banff Centre to identify specific gaps in services or facilities currently available at Sally Borden. This assessment should include public consultation, as well as a specific facility and program inventory and assessment.

x x

Consider capital contributions to upgrade the accessibility and family appeal of Sally Borden pool.

x x (no municipal pool)

Consider operating contributions for more pool staff, or contributing to additional program offerings (including free public swims or events) or expanded hours of operation.

x x (no municipal pool)

D aci lit

x x

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zat

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A R yu

• Keep better records of participation • Coordinate booking • Find potential for more programs

pro ve sf

Work with the CRPS to:

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CRPS

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pro ve s

RECOMMENDATIONS

PLAN OBJECTIVES

x x

T F x

PLAN OBJECTIVES

x x x

RECOMMENDATIONS

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FUTURE RECREATION FACILITY PLANNING

PLAN OBJECTIVES

Gather additional information to determine what gaps and barriers exist in programming and amenities that are leading to public dissatisfaction with the existing facilities in the community. Update and improve the existing recreation tracking system (ActiveNet/CLASS) to include more information on current utilization, as well as potential strategies for tracking use of facilities that arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t booked (i.e. basketball court at the Recreation Grounds). The Town of Banff should lead the way for the community as a whole by coordinating ongoing data collection and analysis for facilities and programs offered not only by the municipality, but by the School District, the Banff Centre, and private facilities. Identify specific gaps and barriers through the assessment of facility and programming data (as per recommendation above) and through public consultation. Topics to focus on include: the range of programming, facility amenities or components, cost and access. If possible, coordinate with Elevation Place staff to track the use of the facility by Banff residents for different programs and memberships, ideally including demographic information. If deemed necessary to improve overall participation, consider strategies to reduce barriers to access through subsidies, reciprocal use agreements, increased transit service, or other collaborative efforts with the Town of Canmore.

A R

x x

Undertake a detailed business case analysis for any potential new recreation facilities to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

x x

T F

x x

x x x

& playing 3 Parks fields 3.1 Current Inventory

3.2 SWOT table

3.3 Benchmarking table

3.4 Map

3.5 Recommendations

3.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

A R

T F

FIELD RECREATION

Pa da rti ta cip so at ur ion ce

tic av ipa ai tio la n bl d e at

T F

Pa r

Fa c

ili

so n Se a

Lo ca

tio n

la b us ilit e yf or

A va i

M ai

w ne

nt en

hi p

e am N ty ili Fa c

A ct

Fa c

ili

ity

Ty p

3.1 Current inventory

Natural Climbing Areas

Banff National Park

Federal

Unmaintained

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

Yes

N/A

Parks and Open Spaces

Rotary Park

Private

Public

Banff North

Year Round

Neighbourhood

N/A

Central Park

Municipal

Public

Core

Year Round

Community

N/A

Middle Springs

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Year Round

Neighbourhood

N/A

Cascade Ponds

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Johnston Lake

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Minnewanka

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Municipal

Public

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Provincial

Public

Year Round

Community

N/A

Provincial

Public

Year Round

Community

N/A

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Private

Public

Year Round

Community

N/A

Cascade Gardens

Federal

Public

Core

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Rec. Grounds Inc. shelters

Municipal

Public

Rec. Grounds

Year Round

Regional

Public

N/A

Cascade Ponds

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Minnewanka

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Year Round

Regional

N/A

Rec. Grounds High School Elementary School Two Jack Marmot Crescent

BBQ Pits/ Shelters

A R

D Federal

Municipal

Provincial

FIELD RECREATION continued ICE & SNOW

Soccer Field / Football / Rugby

Rec. Grounds

Municipal

Public

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Community

Yes

Banff Springs

Private

Semi-Private

Spray Ave

Summer

Community

N/A

Ball Diamonds

Rec. Grounds

Municipal

Public

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Community

Yes

Elementary School

Provincial

Municipal

Public

Core

Summer

Community

N/A

Frolf (Frisbee Golf )

Nordic Centre

Private

Public

Regional

Summer

Regional

N/A

Off-Leash Dog Areas

Dog Park

Municipal

Public

Industrial

Year round

Community

N/A

Golf

Banff Springs

Private

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

Yes

Stewart Creek

Private

Public

Regional

Summer

Regional

Yes

Canmore

Private

Regional

Summer

Regional

Yes

Silver Tip

Private

Regional

Summer

Regional

Yes

Ice Climbing Wall

HI Hostel

Private

Natural Ice Climbing

Banff National Park

Downhill Ski Areas

Lake Louise

Norquay

A R

T F

Private

Public

Private

Public

Private

Public

Tunnel Mtn.

Winter

Unmaintained

Public

Adjacent

Winter

Regional

Yes

N/A

Private

Public

Regional

Winter

Regional

Yes

Private

Public

Adjacent

Winter

Regional

Yes

Private

Public

Regional

Winter

Regional

Yes

Private

Public

Regional

Winter

Regional

Yes

Private

Municipal

Public

Core

Winter

Regional

N/A

Middle Springs

Municipal

Private

Public

Middle Springs

Winter

Community

N/A

Bow River

Parks/Federal

Private

Public

Core

Winter

Regional

N/A

Banff Springs Hotel

Private

Public

Spray

Winter

Regional

N/A

Fenlands

Municipal

Public

Fenlands

Winter

Regional

N/A

Marmot

Neighbourhood

Private

Public

Marmot

Winter

Community

N/A

Sunshine

Nakiska

Outdoor Ice

High School

D Federal Private

Private Private Private

WATER

Paddling - Flat Water

Paddling - Moving Water

Canoe Dock

MAINTENANCE

COURT

Tennis Courts

Basketball Courts

Vermillion Lakes

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Johnston Lake

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Two-Jack

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Bow River - Above Banff

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Bow River Below Banff

Federal

Public

Canoe Dock

Municipal

Private

Public

Minnewanka Pier

Private

Public

Rec. Grounds

Municipal

Banff Springs

Private

Rocky Mtn Resort

Private

Elementary school

Provincial

Rec. Grounds

Municipal

T F

A R

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Core

Summer

Regional

Yes

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Municipal

Public

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Community

N/A

Private

Semi-Public

Spray Avenue

Summer

Community

Yes

Private

Public

Adjacent to Town

Summer

Community

N/A

Municipal

Public

Core

Summer

Community

N/A

Municipal

Public

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Community

N/A

Municipal

Public

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Regional

N/A

Private

Public

Rec. Grounds

Year round

Regional

Yes

Municipal

Public

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Community

N/A

Federal

Private

Adjacent

Summer

Community

Yes

Municipal

Private

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Private

Rec. Grounds Irrigation

Municipal

Private

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Private

Central Park Irrigation

Municipal

Private

Rec. Grounds

Summer

Private

Skate Park

Rec. Grounds

Horseback Riding

Warners Stables

Mtn. Bike Park

Rec. Grounds

Horse Storage

Horse Corals

Maintenance Facility

Rec. Grounds Equipment Storage

D Municipal Private

Municipal

3.2 S.W.O.T Analysis PARKS & PLAYING FIELDS

T F

STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

OPPORTUNITY

THREATS

• Surrounded by National Park land and many opportunities for outdoor recreation and programs provided by others • Parks Canada (Cascade Gardens) and the Rotary Club (Rotary Park) provide additional open space for the community • Banff has 2 centrally located community parks (Central Park and Recreation Grounds). Both have washrooms and picnic facilities. • Sports field capacity is sufficient for existing & projected demand (soccer, rugby, softball) • Two school fields provide additional play space, are available to the public, and joint use agreements exist • Existing picnic areas are extremely popular in summer • Banff has a new and well-used dog park • Banff has two community green houses. • Town of Banff has been able to use the High School field for an outdoor ice rink

• Limited municipal land base • Few neighbourhood parks, not a lot of public green space within residential areas (east of Banff avenue) • Soccer/Rugby pitch is not wide enough for official size Rugby • Asphalt oval track is in poor condition, underused • Ball diamond outfield fences limit multi-use potential of fields • Limited outdoor sport courts, especially basketball • Outdoor basketball for kids is limited to the elementary school • Parking at the Recreation Grounds is insufficient to meet summer demands • No storage, change room or clubhouse at the recreation grounds • Dog park is of limited size and is mostly forested, not centrally located • The rink damages the turf underneath, reducing the ability to use the field during spring and summer

• Political will to convert single-use space to multifunctional space • The Recreation Grounds has potential for increased use and multifunctional spaces • Capital budget exists to reconfigure the soccer/rugby pitch • There is potential to work with Parks Canada to improve Cascade Gardens for picnicking and informal use by locals and tourists • There are many opportunities to showcase environmental sustainability within the park system • Additional multifunctional sport courts are relatively inexpensive and can serve a wide range of users

• Reconfiguration or reallocation of park space would likely require reduction in some user group spaces or a reduction of exclusivity/quality due to sharing • Cost to acquire one existing residential lot for a neighbourhood park $0.75-1M • Parents often anxious about outdoor recreation risks in parks and trails (wildlife, in particular) • Potential for seasonal flooding of the recreation grounds • There is limited available land at the Recreation Grounds • The outdoor ice rink might not be able to be done every year due to turf damage

A R

T F

A R

3.3 Benchmarking Table

Park Facility

Parks (hectares/1000 residents)

North American Standards 2.8A - 4.5C

Other Industry Standards

Comparable sized Western Canadian communitiesE

Alberta ExamplesF

Current Banff level of serviceG

5.3

9.200

Current Banff inventory

Over/under supply measure

(quantity of facilities)

75.84

units are in hectares (1 ha = 10,000 m2)

Banff Parks are well distributed with most areas within a short walk of parks and open space (see maps). The surrounding National Park is an added benefit.

0.19B-0.345C

0.612

0.733

0.364

Does not meet supply measure standards for Western Canadian or Alberta supply comparisons

0.13B - 0.136C

0.045

0.275

0.121

Does not meet Alberta supply comparison

0.030

0.121

Exceeds standards shown

Dog Parks ( /1000 residents)

0.01B - 0.023C

0.025

0.121

Exceeds standards shown

Field House

Outdoor Ice Rinks ( /1000 residents)

0.005B 0.026C

Park Agency Community Garden Plots (/1000 residents)

0.29B

Picnic Shelters (/1000 residents)

0.5C

Skateboard Parks ( /1000 residents)

0.005B 0.264C

Soccer fields ( /1000 residents)

Tennis Courts ( /1000 residents)

0.2B-0.228C

Recreation - % of Total Expenditures

Park distribution and service areas

Ball Diamonds (adult size)( /1000 residents) Outdoor Basketball Courts (full size) ( /1000 residents) BMX/Mountain Bike Park ( /1000 residents)

Park service areas of 5 or 10 minute walkH

T F

A R

1 soccer pitch/90 participantsD

0.022

0.000

Does not meet Alberta supply in comparison communities, but it should be noted that only 1/2 of the 16 comparison communities had a field house.

0.325

0.485

One rink is not owned by the Town, but this provision would still be met with 3 rinks.

6.065

0.052

0.364

Does not meet NRPA Standard, but exceeds Alberta supply measure.

0.089

0.045

0.121

Note: The existing facility is not permanent. Does not meet all supply measures, but does meet standard of comparable sized Western Canadian Communities.

0.312

0.685

0.121

Does not meet supply measure standards.

0.278

0.255

0.243

15.23%

Exceeds standard shwon

= above standards = below standards

T F

3.4 Town of Banff maintained and natural developed open spaces

A R

Elementary School

Whiskey Creek

Pika Place Rotary Park

Recreation Grounds 2

Central Park

Recreation Grounds 1 Middle Springs 1 Middle Springs 2

Bow R iv

Riverview

T F

Park Ave Valleyview

A R

22 m2 of Maintained Green Space per Resident (2011 Municipal Census Population = 8244)

Maintained Green Space = ~5% of Town's Gross Area Natural Developed Green Space = ~20% of Town's Gross Area Total Green Space = ~25% of Town's Gross Area

Private Public

Green Spaces Maintained (180,782 m2) Natural Developed (770,885 m2) Town Boundary (3,938,832 m2)

Town of Banff Maintained and N atural Developed Open Spaces The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

0 130 260

520 1:18,586

780

1,040 Meters

Date Created: 5/3/2013 4:19:23 PM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: Maintained_Manicured

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3.4 Town of Banff proximity to maintained open spaces

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Whiskey Creek

Dog Park

Pika Park

Banff Elementary School

Rotary Park Banff High School Banff Ave Park

Central Park

Maintained Old Banff Cemetery not included in Service Area Analysis

Recreation Grounds Bo

Parks Canada Admin. Grounds

e r

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Riverview Parkette

Middle Springs Playground

Park Ave Playground

A R

ValleyView Playground

Banff Springs

Maintained Open Space 5 Minute Service Area 10 Minute Service Area 15 Minute Service Area Town Boundary

Town of Banff Proximity to Maintained Open Spaces The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

0 125 250

500 1:18,229

750

1,000 Meters

Date Created: 5/3/2013 4:18:55 PM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: Manicured_ServiceArea

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3.5 Recommendations Parks & Playing fields

Parkland supply is usually considered in terms of the total area of maintained parks and natural areas and how well they are distributed (measured by the walking distance service area). The Town of Banff currently provides over 75 hectares of parkland or 9.2 ha per 1,000 residents. This is greater than the provision standards identified by the National Recreation and Parks Association benchmark as well as in comparison to other similar sized communities in Western Canada (4.5 and 5.3 ha per 1,000 residents, respectively). The parkland provision in Banff will meet or exceed the higher of these standards unless the population reaches 14, 310. Banff has the added benefit of being surrounded by Banff National Park (not included in the inventory). When considered in this context, it is clear that Banff will never be deficient in parkland, based on the population of the Town.

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Banff has the added complexity of having a large number of visitors who widely use both the Town parks, as well as the National Park. For discussion purposes, if the Town wished to provide parkland within the Town for both residents and visitors (~30,000), there would need to be nearly 160 hectares of parkland, which is neither practical nor possible, given the boundary limits of the Town and the surrounding provision of the National Park.

Based on the discussion above, the focus of the recommendations is on the distribution of parkland, the amenities provided within Banff parks, and the multifunctionality of the parks, rather than the quantity. Some amenities have benchmarks which can be used as a comparison, and these have been highlighted throughout the recommendations where applicable. Other recommendations are based on public input, discussions with Town of Banff staff, trends in parks and recreation, and experience of the consulting team. Recommendations were also developed in relation to the principles developed by the Town of Banff to guide this master plan process, which include: • Increase the use of recreational facilities, parks and trails (Banff Community Plan) • Maximize municipal facility access potential; multi-season, day and evening • Increase operating cost recovery • A comparable local inventory of recreational facilities (including private and other agencies) to other communities • A planned but flexible system of open spaces, trails, and parks • Recreational facilities that also appeal to visitors and can host events • New Town indoor facilities will follow Municipal Sustainable Building policy

Central Park

Central Park is the main civic hub for passive recreation. It is located at the heart of the Town and is adjacent to several other civic features: 101 Bear Street (library and Seniors’ Centre), Town Hall, the post office, and the Whyte Museum. Several events are staged at the park, primarily through the summer months, including weekly farmers markets in the summer. Primary features include the Bow River trail, flexible open lawn, picnic facilities, gazebo a small play area and washrooms. Reconstruction of the washroom building is being planned in 2013, for construction in 2014. Although generally considered a Town-wide park and visitor attraction, the compact nature of the Town and difficulty in adding new neighbourhood park land means that it also needs to provide amenities for the local neighbourhood (i.e. play space). National trends in recreation are toward more informal, low-intensity activities and less structured, strenuous recreation and team sports. Central Park is an ideal place for showcasing the surrounding scenery and providing unprogrammed park space that addresses this trend. It is also a good counterpoint to the Recreation Grounds, which serves the needs of the Town and visitors for active/structured recreation and sport.

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Recommendation • Expand the children’s play area in Central Park. Continue to develop unique, non-traditional features that complement the existing climbing structure and enhance the sense of place. (Traditional large play structures are not recommended.) This recommendation is based on the public survey comments regarding familyfriendly features. • Preserve the character of the park as a flexible, multifunctional civic space and avoid over-programming with ad hoc structures, amenities or trees. This will enable events, use by visitors, and accommodation of informal play and recreation. • Relocate washroom closer to the street to allow for more park space, potentially for an expanded play area. • Consider opening up the area in the SE corner of the park through select removal of vegetation. • Incorporate features to help host successful events, but avoid permanent structures that would restrict other park uses. • Electrical outlets – Provide permanent electrical boxes for sound systems and lighting to reduce the need for power generators which are loud, use fossil fuels, are detrimental to air quality, and can compromise safety. These could be incorporated into the new washroom building or along existing paved paths, if the location is appropriate for event staging. • Lighting – Provide lighting systems that can be used during events to light critical entrances, exits, and pathways. • Potable water taps – design for water bottle filling to reduce bottled water consumption and waste and reduce dehydration (incorporate into the new washroom building). • Plan areas for supplemental port-a-potties for large events. • Open turf areas – consider adding structural components within the subbase of the Central Park grass areas to accommodate stages and tents while limiting damage to the lawn. • Plan for controlled paved entrances and exits for equipment, trucks, and “behind the scenes” activities. Ensure that vehicular traffic won’t cause significant damage to lawns or other amenities.

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Recreation Grounds

The Recreation Grounds are a valuable recreational asset, in that they provide the only option for adult regulation field sport play in the municipality. They are also the site of a number of other recreation amenities including a running track, community greenhouse, tennis and basketball courts, skateboard park, a mountain bike park, picnic shelters, and washrooms. The latest Master Plan for the park is from 1993. Recommendations: • Undertake a site specific plan update for the whole park. A redesign of the Recreation Grounds should be undertaken to improve the existing spaces for multiple functions. Redesign should enhance the site beyond simply an athletic park and picnic area to showcase the Banff setting and lifestyle. The site plan should include a vision for the park and the uses it should serve, as well as the phasing of projects to be undertaken to achieve this vision. • The recommendations below are components to be evaluated in detail through the sitespecific master plan process, prior to making any capital investments. As part of an updated site-specific plan, consider the following:

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• The Town should communicate with user groups that a major field upgrade under the current circumstances would eliminate an entire season of soccer/rugby play. The following sequence is one way this scenario might be achieved:

d Su nd an ce R

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• Reconfigure Sports Fields. The field upgrades should be pursued in conjunction with the reconfiguration of the layout to have 1 dedicated rectangular field, 2 dedicated diamonds and one overlapping field/diamond combination. The resulting addition of a second rectangular field will help address the Town’s deficiency in soccer fields and create more informal play space.

Map Area

Sundance Rd

• Upgrade Sports Fields. Field upgrading would improve the performance and usability of the playing surfaces. In the long term, it would be desirable to raise the level of each of the fields to improve drainage, extend the playing season and improve overall turf management. Impacts on continuity of play should be minimized (discussed further below). This recommendation is in response to public feedback.

Town of Banff

Winter Off-Leash Dog Park

Remove 'Warning Track' and Permanent Ball Diamond Fencing

Second Soccer Field

• Remove Running Track. Replace with a paved path around the entire park or a circuit at another location (with marking of 100 meter intervals).

Regulation Cricket Pitch

• With the track gone, build a double rectangular field with the north pitch overlapping into the centre diamond outfield to the north. This additional field would have a shorter end zone more suited to soccer than rugby, but could be used for practice/warm-up for both sports. The middle diamond on the overlap field would be used only in high demand periods, for softball tournaments, or as backup while another diamond is undergoing maintenance. • The double field combination would also be ideal for cricket with the rectangular pitch area located between the rugby/soccer layouts. • Once this general configuration is realized, the fields could be improved or rebuilt in rotation. • Temporary fencing would be required to define the overlap playing area either for soccer/rugby or for softball. When not in use it could be removed and stored.

Removal of Track Surface

Regulation Rugby Field

Town of Banff Conceptual Reconfiguration of Sports Fields The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

12.5

50 1:1,273

100 Meters

Date Created: 6/7/2013 1:44:29 PM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: RecreationGroundsConceptualReconfig

• Modify the existing field reservation system for all field use to better record actual use and practices (Note: This does not imply increased fees). In doing so, work with annual contract users to establish better protocol for reporting actual levels of use. This should provide better clarity when developing field user fees, and prevent overuse during vulnerable periods. Improved tracking would also allow the Town to gather information on local sports participation trends that are essential for ongoing field planning. • Undertake a survey of summer visitors and local residents using the Rec. Grounds. Due to the popularity of the facility with both local residents and tourists, a survey of summer users should be undertaken. It would be very informative regarding which amenities might enhance the day-use/picnic experience for visitors, as well as broader park objectives (including informal field use) by local residents.

• Basketball: Consider adding another basketball court and practice hoops for younger children. This recommendation follows from the public survey request for more family-friendly amenities, national trends in playground design and amenities, and staff discussions regarding the popularity of basketball. • Bike Skills Park: Consider relocation of the bike skills area to Tunnel Mountain. The bike skills area is occasionally flooded and requires regular renovation as a result. The suggestion to add a better range of obstacles for different ability levels was made in the public questionnaire. There is potential to develop a bike skills area at Tunnel Mountain, through a partnership with Parks Canada. This location would be closer to the main biking trails.

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• Skate Park: Create a permanent skate park. The existing skate park is comprised of modular structures built and maintained by volunteers. The location and design of a new, permanent skate park should be done with substantial community consultation and feedback from the existing users of the skate park. Some features could be permanent, while others could be designed so that they can be changed occasionally for new challenges.

A R

• Consider building a multipurpose building to provide user groups with change rooms, showers, additional washrooms, and some storage capacity. An alternative would be to add on to the existing washroom building. A multipurpose building could also provide additional services for tourists (sports equipment rental, concessions).

• Improve and expand facilities for tourists, tournaments and special events (more picnic amenities specifically for groups, expanded options for concessions by local businesses, access to rented or free recreational equipment, reconfigured/expanded parking). This recommendation would follow a summer tourist survey and study.

• Playground: Improve and expand children’s play facilities with good sightlines from sport fields for casual supervision. Consider adding a tricycle/biking circuit suitable for young children, a small challenge course, and/or beginner mountain bike skills/skate board obstacle. This recommendation follows from the public survey request for more family-friendly amenities and national trends in playground design and amenities.

• Community Gardens: Consider future expansion of the existing community greenhouse. One community greenhouse exists at the Recreation Grounds and another was recently built at a private parking lot facility. Based on national trends, the demand for community gardens and greenhouse plots is likely to increase. Allowing for an expansion or addition to the existing greenhouse in the future should be considered in order to provide more gardening opportunities without requiring the duplication of the support amenities (shared compost, stockpile area, potting station, etc.). • Dog Parks: Consider adding a ‘winter only’ dog off-leash area. An elk-exclusion fence and Parks Canada approval would be required. Ensure that the damage caused to the turf is considered managable (like outdoor ice at BCHS). • Parking lot expansion. Due to the large number of summer users who park at the Recreation Grounds for the entire day, in addition to the fluctuating parking needs of sports teams, a reconfiguration and expansion of the parking lot is recommended.

Community gardens Recommendation: • Continue to add community gardens and greenhouses as demand increases. Support the development of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, and schools for different types of gardens and learning opportunities throughout the Town.

Skate parks Recommendation: • In addition to a permanent location at the Recreation Grounds, consider incorporating small skateboard features/nodes at other locations around town.

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Outdoor rink The outdoor rink that has been installed at the High School in recent years has been very successful, and there were many comments from the public survey in favour of making it a regular amenity and even adding boards for hockey.

A R

Recommendation: • Establish the High School grounds as a long-term location for an outdoor ice rink and consider the addition of a seasonal warming hut and concession stand • Ensure a high level of turf recovery maintenance to prevent damage and ensure that continued use during the winters is acceptable by the School District.

Parks owned by others

Two significant public parks within the Town are owned by others, the Parks Canada Cascade Gardens and the Rotary Park.

Recommendations: • Partner with Parks Canada to pursue the development of Cascade Gardens and Banff Avenue Square as an additional picnic site and open play area. Based on discussions with Town staff, picnicking is very popular with both locals and visitors. National recreation trends also indicate that informal recreation activities are on the rise. • Anticipate the need to assist the Rotary Club with future playground upgrades and maintenance. This recommendation is based on preliminary discussions with Rotary Club and experience of the consulting team with private playgrounds dependent on volunteer efforts and fundraising. Loss of Rotary Club park space and playgrounds would negatively affect the ability of some residents to walk to a park in 5-10 minutes (i.e. service area benchmark).

A R

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3.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan objectives

RECOMMENDATIONS

Expand the children’s play area in Central Park. Continue to develop unique, non-traditional features that complement the existing climbing structure and enhance the sense of place. (Traditional large play structures are not recommended.)

Preserve the character of the park as a flexible, multifunctional civic space and avoid overprogramming with ad hoc structures, amenities or trees.

Relocate washroom closer to the street to allow for more park space, potentially for an expanded play area.

Consider opening up the area in the SE corner of the park through select removal of vegetation. Incorporate features to help host successful events, but avoid permanent structures that would restrict other park uses: • Electrical outlets – Provide permanent electrical boxes for sound systems and lighting to reduce the need for power generators which are loud, use fossil fuels, are detrimental to air quality, and can compromise safety. These could be incorporated into the new washroom building or along existing paved paths, if the location is appropriate for event staging. • Lighting – Provide lighting systems that can be used during events to light critical entrances, exits, and pathways. • Potable water taps – design for water bottle filling to reduce bottled water consumption and waste and reduce dehydration (incorporate into the new washroom building). • Plan areas for supplemental port-a-potties for large events. • Open turf areas – consider adding structural components within the subbase of the Central Park grass areas to accommodate stages and tents while limiting damage to the lawn. • Plan for controlled paved entrances and exits for equipment, trucks, and “behind the scenes” activities. Ensure that vehicular traffic won’t cause significant damage to lawns or other amenities.

on He acc lps i act ess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc gra n a rea ms nd ses an d op era tin gc os tr Ad ec d ov be res ery nc se hm s d ark efi s o cien r s cie tan s b da a s Co rds ed n on fun tri cti but on es al pa to a rks fle an xibl d t e, Im rai mu p ls s ltir an ov yst d f es em or a e v ppe en al t h for os tin visit g or Ad s de dres ma se nd s p ub lic fee db ack Ad / d pro res s v e rec inc s rea ial, cur tio or ren n loc t n al atio tre na nd l, s in

zat i yu tili fac ilit pro ve s Im

CENTRAL PARK

PLAN OBJECTIVES

A R

T F x

Undertake a site specific plan update for the whole park. A redesign of the Recreation Grounds should be undertaken to improve the existing spaces for multiple functions. Redesign should enhance the site beyond simply an athletic park and picnic area to showcase the Banff setting and lifestyle. The site plan should include a vision for the park and the uses it should serve, as well as the phasing of projects to be undertaken to achieve this vision. The recommendations below are components to be evaluated in detail through the site-specific master plan process, prior to making any capital investments.

Upgrade Sports Fields. Field upgrading would improve the performance and usability of the playing surfaces. In the long term, it would be desirable to raise the level of each of the fields to improve drainage or to consider an artificial turf field.

Reconfigure Sports Fields. The field upgrades should be pursued in conjunction with the reconfiguration of the layout to have 1 dedicated rectangular field, 2 dedicated diamonds and one overlapping field/diamond combination. Modify the existing field reservation system for all field use to better record actual use and practices (Note: This does not imply increased fees). In doing so, work with annual contract users to establish better protocol for reporting actual levels of use. This should provide better clarity when developing field user fees, and prevent overuse during vulnerable periods. Improved tracking would also allow the Town to gather information on local sports participation trends that are essential for ongoing field planning. Undertake a survey of summer visitors and local residents using the Rec. Grounds. Due to the popularity of the facility with both local residents and tourists, a survey of summer users should be undertaken. It would be very informative regarding which amenities might enhance the day-use/picnic experience for visitors, as well as broader park objectives (including informal field use) by local residents.

on He ac lps i act cess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc gra n a rea ms nd ses an d op era tin gc os tr Ad ec d ov be res ery nc se hm s d ark efi s o cien r s cie tan s b da a s Co rds ed n on fun tri cti but on es al pa to a rks fle an xibl d t e, Im rai mu p ls s ltian rov yst d f es em or a e v ppe en al t h for os tin visit g or Ad s d de res ma se nd s p ub lic fee db ack Ad / d pro res s v e rec inc s rea ial, cur tio or ren n loc t n al atio tre na nd l, s in

zat i yu tili fac ilit pro ve s Im

RECREATION GROUNDS RECOMMENDATIONS

PLAN OBJECTIVES

A R

D x

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(2nd soccer field, skate park, field house, outdoor basketball)

(2nd soccer field)

x x

(helps identify deficiencies)

RECOMMENDATIONS

Consider building a multipurpose building (or adding to the existing washroom building) to provide user groups with change rooms, showers, additional washrooms, and some storage capacity. A multipurpose building could also provide additional services for tourists (sports equipment rental, concessions).

Improve and expand facilities for tourists, tournaments and special events (more picnic amenities specifically for groups, expanded options for concessions by local businesses, access to rented or free recreational equipment, reconfigured/expanded parking). This recommendation would follow a summer tourist survey and study.

Improve and expand childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play facilities with good sightlines from sport fields for casual supervision. Consider adding a tricycle/biking circuit suitable for young children, a small challenge course, and/or beginner mountain bike skills/skate board obstacle. This recommendation follows from the public survey request for more family-friendly amenities and national trends in playground design and amenities.

Consider adding another basketball court and practice hoops for younger kids. This recommendation follows from the public survey request for more family-friendly amenities, national trends in playground design and amenities, and staff discussions regarding the popularity of basketball (no user statistics are available, as the court is not booked).

Consider relocation of the bike skills area to Tunnel Mountain. The bike skills area is occasionally flooded and requires regular renovation as a result. The suggestion to add a better range of obstacles for different ability levels was made in the public questionnaire. There is potential to develop a bike skills area at Tunnel Mountain, through a partnership with Parks Canada and this location would be closer to the main biking trails.

Create a permanent skate park. The existing skate park is comprised of temporary structures built and maintained by volunteers. The location and design of a new, permanent skate park should be done with substantial community consultation and feedback from the existing users of the skate park. Some features could be permanent, while others could be designed so that they can be changed occasionally for new challenges.

Consider future expansion of the existing community greenhouse. Based on local and national trends, demand for community garden space is likely to increase.

Consider adding a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;winter onlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dog off-leash area. An elkexclusion fence and Parks Canada approval would be required. Ensure that the damage caused to the turf is considered managable, like the outdoor ice at the BCHS.

Expand the parking facilities. Due to the large number of summer users who park at the Recreation Grounds for the entire day, in addition to the fluctuating parking needs of sports teams, a reconfiguration and expansion of the parking lot is recommended.

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A R x

(basketball courts)

(skate parks)

Community Gardens/Greenhouses: Continue to add community gardens and greenhouses as demand increases. Support the development of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, and schools for different types of gardens and learning opportunities throughout the Town. Outdoor Ice Rinks: Establish the High School grounds as a long-term location for an outdoor ice rink and consider the addition of a seasonal warming hut, concession stand, and boards. Partner with Parks Canada to pursue the development of Cascade Gardens as an additional picnic sites and open play areas and Banff Avenue Square for a greater variety of uses.

on He ac lps i act cess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc g ra n a rea ms nd ses an d op era tin gc os tr Ad ec ov be dres ery nc se hm s d ark efi s o cien r s cie tan s b da as Co rds ed on fun ntri b cti ut on es al pa to a rks fle an xibl d t e, Im rai mu ls s ltian prov yst d f es em or ap e v pe en al t h for os tin visit g or Ad s de dres ma se nd s p ub lic fee db ack Ad / pro dres s v rec inc es rea ial, cur tio or ren n loc t n al atio tre na nd l, s in

zat i

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tili yu fac ilit pro ve s Im

OTHER PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS AND AMENITIES

RECOMMENDATIONS

Skate Boarding: In addition to a permanent location at the Recreation Grounds, consider incorporating small skateboard features/nodes at other locations around town.

PLAN OBJECTIVES

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D x

x x

4 Trails 4.1 Current Inventory

4.2 SWOT table

4.3 Map

4.4 Recommendations

4.5 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

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av ipa ai tio la n bl d Pa e ata da rti ta cip so at ur ion ce

s as cl ty ili

Se a

so n

tio n Lo ca

nt en

la b us ilit e yf or

p hi rs w ne

Community

N/A

Paved Multi-Use Trails

Legacy Trail

Federal/Municipal

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

Yes

Bow River Trail

Municipal

Core

Year round

Regional

Yes

Cave & Basin

Federal

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Bow Falls

Municipal

Spray Ave

Summer

Regional

N/A

Tunnel Mtn

Municipal

Unpaved trails

A R

Pa r

T F

tic

Summer

Fa c

Rec. Grounds

A va i Public

M ai Municipal

O Municipal

Municipal

Public

Federal

Public

Municipal

Public

Municipal

Public

Tunnel Mtn Rd

Summer

Regional

N/A

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Summer

Regional

N/A

Private

Adjacent

Summer

Community

Yes

Private

Public

Rec. Grounds

Year round

Regional

Yes

Federal

Private

Public

Tunnel Mtn. Bench

Summer

Regional

Yes

Private

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Winter

Regional

N/A

Lake Louise Trails

Federal

ID#9/Federal

Public

Regional

Winter

Regional

N/A

Nordic Centre

Provincial

Public

Regional

Winter

Regional

Yes

N/A

Mt. Shark Trails

Provincial

ID#9/Federal

Public

Regional

Winter

Regional

N/A

Minnewanka Trails

Federal

Public

Adjacent

Winter

Regional

N/A

Fenlands Marsh Loop

Ice & snow

e am Rec. Grounds

Fa c

ili

Ty p ty

Running Track

Fa c

ili

Trail Recreation

A ct

ity

Ty p

4.1 Current inventory

Horse Storage

Horse Corals

Horseback Riding

Warners Stables

Mtn Bike Trails

Tunnel Mtn Network

X-Country Ski Trails

Spray River Trail

D Federal

Federal

Federal Private

TRAILS

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A R

4.2 SWOT analysis

STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

• There are abundant trails and trails/linkages to LATB and they connect to a much wider range of opportunities in the National Park • Trails are extremely popular and offer the Town a high community value per dollar spent

• There is a limited amount of use data • Winter maintenance limits use • Grade separation from vehicle traffic for cyclists and pedestrians is lacking on some key routes • Not all key recreation facilities are linked by off-street trails, sidewalks and bike lanes (Banff Centre and Fenlands)

OPPORTUNITY

THREATS

• There is a desire to create an integrated trail system in Town that links recreation facilities and parks • It is a Council priority to link Town trails to National Park trails • New pedestrian bridge in 2013 • There is a desire to create better way-finding system and to provide high quality trails

• Limited road width allowances and land to put new trails in along some routes • Ice and winter surfaces maintenance and safety is an issue • Grades are steep in some areas

4.3 Town of Banff trail and walkway surface type

The Fenlands

A R

T F

Central Park Recreation Grounds

o w

R iv e r

The Banff Centre

T F

A R

Roadside Routes or Connections Dirt Dirt/ Gravel

Gravel Gravel/ Asphalt Asphalt Under Construction

Town of Banff Map Area

Town of Banff Trail and Walkway Surface Type The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

125 250

500 1:14,852

750

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Date Created: 5/17/2013 11:45:49 AM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: Trails_SurfaceTypes

4.3 Town of Banff trail and walkway usage type Legacy Trail Connector

Fenland Trail

T F

A R

Bow River Hoodoos Trail

Tunnel Mountain

To Sundance

Legacy Trail Connector

Canyon Trail

To Cave & Basin

o w

Multiple Use Trails

Under Construction Parks Canada Trails Town Boundary

T F

A R

Roadside Routes or Connections

Pedestrian Only

Spray River Loop Trail

Town of Banff Trail and Walkway Useage Type The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

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500 1:14,852

750

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Date Created: 5/17/2013 11:43:55 AM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: Trail_Walkway_UseTypes

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4.3 Town of Banff sharrow marked bike lanes

A R

Legacy Trail Connector

Fenland Trail

Tunnel Mountain

Legacy Trail Connector

To Sundance Canyon Trail

To Cave & Basin

Sharrow Marked Bike Lanes Town Boundary

T F

A R

Spray River Loop Trail

Bike Sharrow Example

Town of Banff Sharrow Marked Bike Lanes

The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

125 250

500 1:14,852

750

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Date Created: 5/6/2013 10:08:28 AM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: BikeRoutes

4.3 Town of Banff pedestrian kiosk map Legacy Trail Connector

Fenland Trail

T F

A R

Tunnel Mountain

To Sundance

Legacy Trail Connector

Canyon Trail

To Cave & Basin

w R

Other Trailhead Kiosk

Banff Trailhead Kiosk Banff Wayfinding Pedestrian Kiosk Town Boundary

T F

Banff Wayfinding Pedestrian Kiosk

Town of Banff Pedestrian Kiosks

A R

Spray River Loop Trail

Banff Trailhead Kiosk

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500 1:14,852

750

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Date Created: 5/6/2013 9:28:26 AM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: KioskMap

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4.4 Recommendations

A R

Trails

Trails are highly valued amenities in Banff, which is not surprising given the national trend toward individual, flexible, informal recreation. Trails offer a great deal of value for a relatively low amount of investment. National trends show that walking is the activity with the highest participation rate, and other activities such as jogging and cycling continue to be some of the most popular and accessible activities. Trails should be considered in their capacity as not only a recreational amenity, but also in light of active transportation – facilitating cycling and pedestrian access between different locations in Town. The attached trails map illustrate the current levels of trail connectivity, surfacing and distinguish the different user groups permitted.

Recommendations: • Prioritize trail planning, infrastructure, and maintenance as a way to provide accessible, affordable recreation opportunities to the widest range of users, both residents and visitors. Trail use is widely recognized as an increasing recreation trend, and public feedback indicates that it is also very popular in Banff. • Support development of trails, even outside of the Town site, because it contributes to the recreational amenities of residents and visitors. An example of how this is already occurring is the current partnership with Parks Canada to develop cross country ski trails at Tunnel Mountain. Another initiative could be a relocation of the bike skills park to Tunnel Mountain. • Maximize use of the new pedestrian bridge – linkages and design at both ends, signage, and promotion • Add more trail counters and track usage • Review the existing trail maintenance plan in terms of the following: • Regular, scheduled inspections with documentation procedures; • Prioritized trail improvement projects; and • Coordination of volunteer groups willing to perform routine maintenance.

• Undertake an updated Trails Master Plan. As part of the Trails Master Plan, consider the following: • Continue to create and maintain trail connections to Parks Canada Trails; • Develop a network of trails of different difficulty levels, surfaces, grades, seasons and distances; • Plan and design trails with user experience as a key consideration; • Update existing trail and destination kiosks with on- and off-road loops, trail difficulty information, and “pit stop” locations. Well-known routes such as Melissa’s Race and the Banff Marathon could be highlighted;

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• Incorporate new technologies in trail communications. Potential initiatives include: • Provide QR codes linking to trail condition or map websites. • A pilot project incorporating a trail tracking system for those who want to track and compare performance times. • Distance markers – bollards or painted on pavement.

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• Implement a winter trails plan (comparable to the Town’s lighting and snow removal plans) to establish the most popular winter routes and a plan for increased winter maintenance and lighting to improve safety and enable more use; • Consider adding lighting to selected off-road trails to improve safety and enable more use, especially those that are well-used in the winter for residents getting to and from school or work.

• Develop key routes to provide safe pedestrian and cycling access linking residential areas to schools, recreation facilities and parks. The main connections identified through discussions with staff and based on public feedback include:

• Access to the Fenlands for pedestrians and cyclists, including sidewalks, bike lanes, and lighting. • Sidewalks and bike lanes up to Sally Borden. • Undertake consultation to design safe pedestrian routes for seniors and children. Include essential sidewalks, cross walks, wheelchair ramps, rest spots, and accessible surfaces. Utilize the “Safe Routes to School” toolkit. Learn more, saferoutestoschool.ca/school-travel-planning-toolkit.

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4.5 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan objectives

Prioritize trail planning, infrastructure, and maintenance as a way to provide accessible, affordable recreation opportunities to the widest range of users, both residents and visitors.

on He acc lps i act ess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc gra n a rea ms nd ses an d op era tin gc os tr Ad ec d ov be res ery nc se hm s d ark efi s o cien r s cie tan s b da a s Co rds ed n on fun tri cti but on es al pa to a rks fle an xibl d t e, Im rai mu p ls s ltir an ov yst d f es em or a e v ppe en al t h for os tin visit g or Ad s de dres ma se nd s p ub lic fee db ack Ad / d pro res s v e rec inc s rea ial, cur tio or ren n loc t n al atio tre na nd l, s in

pro ve s

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yu tili zat i

TRAILS

PLAN OBJECTIVES

RECOMMENDATIONS

Support development of trails, even outside of the Town site, because it contributes to the recreational amenities of residents and visitors. An example of how this is already occurring is the current partnership with Parks Canada to develop cross country ski trails at Tunnel Mountain. Another initiative could be a relocation of the bike skills park to Tunnel Mountain. Maximize use of the new pedestrian bridge – linkages and design at both ends, signage, and promotion

Add more trail counters and track usage Undertake an updated Trails Master Plan, including the following: • Continue to create and maintain trail connections to Parks Canada Trails. • Develop a network of trails of different difficulty levels, surfaces, grades, seasons and distances. • Plan and design trails with user experience as a key consideration. Update existing trail and destination kiosks with on- and off-road loops, trail difficulty information, and “pit stop” locations. Well-known routes such as Melissa’s Race and the Banff Marathon could be highlighted. Incorporate new technologies in trail communications. Potential initiatives include: • Provide QR codes linking to trail condition or map websites. • A pilot project incorporating a trail tracking system for those who want to track and compare performance times. • Distance markers – bollards or painted on pavement.

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D X X X

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Consider adding multicultural references on signage.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Consider adding lighting to selected off-road trails to improve safety and enable more use, especially those that are well-used in the winter for residents getting to and from school or work. Develop key routes to provide safe pedestrian and cycling access to recreation facilities. The main connections identified so far are to the Fenlands and Sally Borden. Undertake consultation to design safe pedestrian routes for seniors and children. Include essential sidewalks, cross walks, wheelchair ramps, rest spots, and accessible surfaces. Utilize the “Safe Routes to School” toolkit. Learn more, saferoutestoschool. ca/school-travel-planning-toolkit.

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D x x x

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Review the existing trail maintenance plan in terms of the following: • Regular, scheduled inspections with documentation procedures; • Prioritized trail improvement projects; and • Coordination of volunteer groups willing to perform routine maintenance Implement a winter trails plan (comparable to the Town’s Lighting and Snow Removal Priority Plans) to determine the most popular winter routes and a prioritization winter maintenance to improve safety and enable more use.

He acc lps i act ess ncre ivit to ase ies rec pa rea rti tio cip n p atio ro n i Inc gra n a rea ms nd ses an d op era tin gc os tr Ad ec ov be dres ery nc se hm s d ark efi s o cien r s cie tan s b da a s Co rds ed on fun ntri b cti ut on es al pa to a rks fle an xibl d t e, Im ra i m u ls s ltian prov yst d f es em or ap e v pe en al t h for os tin visit g or Ad s de dres ma se nd s p ub lic fee db ack Ad / d r pro es s rec vinc es rea ial, cur tio or ren n loc t n al atio tre na nd l, s in

zat ion yu tili fac ilit pro ve s Im

TRAILS continued

PLAN OBJECTIVES

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5 Playgrounds 5.1 Current Inventory

5.2 SWOT table

5.3 Benchmarking table

5.4 Map

5.5 Recommendations

5.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

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PLAY/FITNESS/ LEISURE RECREATION

Play Structure

tic av ipa ai tio la n b d Pa le at a r da ti ta cip so at ur ion ce

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e am N ty ili Fa c

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6.1 Current inventory

Middle Springs 1

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Neighbourhood

N/A

Middle Springs 2

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Neighbourhood

N/A

Valley View

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Neighbourhood

N/A

Central Park

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Regional

N/A

Private

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Neighbourhood

N/A

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Regional

N/A

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Community

N/A

Municipal

Public

Middle Springs

Summer

Community

N/A

Private

Semi-Private

Marmot

Summer

Neighbourhood

N/A

Private

Semi-Private

Whiskey Creek

Summer

Neighbourhood

N/A

Rotary Park

Rec. Grounds 1

Rec. Grounds 2 Elementary School Marmot Street Whiskey Creek

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5.2 S.W.O.T Analysis PLAYGROUNDS

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STRENGTHS

WEAKNESSES

• Good range of play areas for different age groups • Middle Springs area is well served • Playgrounds are in good condition

• No playgrounds in residential areas East of Banff Avenue • The informal open play space / grass areas are fairly centralized within Central Park, Recreation Grounds, and the schools • Most of the playgrounds don’t contribute significantly to the “sense of place” (Central Park climbing rocks are an exception) • Wildlife entanglment considerations (swings)

OPPORTUNITY

THREATS

• Increasing population density within the core as redevelopment occurs will likely lead to increased demand for play spaces • New types of amenities and playgrounds can serve a wider range of ages and user groups than in the past and also tourists

• Limited land availability. • High acquisition costs.

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5.3 Benchmarking Table Recreation Facility

Playgrounds ( /1000 residents)

North American Standards

0.23B - 0.297C

Playground distribution and service areas

Recreation - % of Total Expenditures

Other Industry Standards

Park service areas of 5 or 10 minute walkH

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Comparable sized Western Canadian communitiesE

Alberta ExamplesF 1.131

Current Banff level of serviceG

Current Banff inventory

Over/under supply measure

(quantity of facilities)

1.213

Meets national standards and Alberta comparison community averages. Does not meet industry metric for walkable service areas (see maps). The addition of a playground east of Banff Avenue is proposed to improve the distribution.

15.23%

= above standards = below standards

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5.4 Town of Banff public playgrounds service areas

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Elementary School

Whiskey Creek

Pika Place Rotary Park

Recreation Grounds 2

Central Park

Recreation Grounds 1

Middle Springs 1 Middle Springs 2

Riverview

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Park Ave Valleyview

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Private Public Walking Distance by Time 5 Minute Service Area 10 Minute Service Area 15 Minute Service Area

Town of Banff Public Play Grounds Service Areas The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

0 125 250

500 1:18,571

750

1,000 Meters

Date Created: 5/3/2013 3:26:45 PM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: PlayGrounds_ServiceAreas

5.5 Recommendations

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Playgrounds

Pika Place

Playground supply is considered in terms of the number of playgrounds as well as whether they are well distributed, providing equal access to residents. As illustrated in the attached map (Public Playgrounds Service Areas), there are several municipal and school playgrounds within easy walking distance of most residents. In addition, Rotary Park and the schools have open spaces and provide the equivalent of neighbourhood parks for the community. The primary gap identified in the background review and mapping was the lack of play areas east of Banff Avenue.

Whiskey Creek

Rotary Park

Elementary School

Possible Playground Site *Note Service Area Results

Recommendation: â&#x20AC;˘ Plan for a new playground east of Banff Avenue. This could be accomplished the acquisition of 1 or 2 residential lots east of Banff Avenue for a playground and informal grass area, ideally on a corner lot, or the Town triangle lot at Beaver St. and Wolf St. (see attached map). As the area increases in density, these amenities will be in increasingly high demand. A new park in that area will also improve the distribution of playgrounds throughout the community (see benchmark discussion, below).

Recreation Grounds 2

Central Park

Recreation Grounds 1

Middle Springs 1 Middle Springs 2

Riverview

Park Ave Valleyview

Private Public 5 Minute Service Area 10 Minute Service Area 15 Minute Service Area

Possible Playground Site

Town of Banff Public Play Grounds Service Areas * N ote Result of Possible Playground Site The Town of Banff does not guarantee the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, and graphics, and assumes no liability for any damages or loss of any kind that might arise from the use of, misuse of, or the inability to use this product. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for legal, accounting, real estate, business, tax, or other professional advice.

0 125 250

500 1:18,596

750

1,000 Meters

Date Created: 9/10/2013 2:56:38 PM Coordinate System: NAD 1983 UTM Zone 11N Produced By: Town of Banff - GIS Dept (nelsons) File Name: PlayGrounds_ServiceAreas_NewPark2

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5.6 Matrix of Recommendations vs. Plan Objectives

RECOMMENDATIONS Playgrounds: Plan for a new playground east of Banff Avenue. This could be accomplished the acquisition of 1 or 2 residential lots east of Banff Avenue for a playground and informal grass area, ideally on a corner lot, or the Town triangle lot at Beaver St. and Wolf St. (see attached map).

Anticipate the need to assist the Rotary Club with future playground upgrades and maintenance.

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OTHER PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS AND AMENITIES

PLAN OBJECTIVES

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(spatial distribution of playgrounds)

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(potential loss of playgrounds)

6 Apendix 6.1 First survey results

6.2 Open house boards

6.3 Second survey results

101

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6.1 First survey results

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80.0% 60.0% 40.0% 20.0% 0.0%

nt ou C e ns

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answered question

108

skipped question

153

Do you reside in Banff?

100.0%

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98.1% 1.9%

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Yes

n: io st ue Do You Reside in Banff Q

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey

Yes

Under 18

4.2%

25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65 and over

40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% Under 18

nt ou C e ns po es

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18-24

8.9%

27.4% 33.2% 17.0% 5.8% 3.5%

71 86 44 15 9

answered question skipped question

0.0%

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey

18-24

25-34

259 2

35-44

45-54

55-64

65 and over

Female

52.1%

52.0% 50.0% 48.0% 46.0% 44.0%

nt ou C e ns po

R 135

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answered question skipped question

54.0%

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Male

Gender:

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey

Male

124

259 2

Female

nt ou C e ns po

0 - 5 years

8.10%

6 - 10 years

6.60%

11 + Born in Canada If not born in Canada

0 - 5 years

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n: io st ue Q How long have you resided in Canada: 80.00% 70.00% 60.00% 50.00% 40.00% 30.00% 20.00% 10.00% 0.00%

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey

Countries of Origin (If not Canada)

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6 - 10 years

12.40%

73% See Below answered question skipped question

189

11 +

Born in Canada

259 2

argentina

2 Australia 3 Colombia 4 England 5 Germany 6 Ireland 7 Italy 8 Japan 9 Korea 10 New Zealand 11 PHILIPPINES 12 Scotland 13 sirlanka 14 Switzerland 15 U.S.A. 16 UK

7 1 2 2 2 2 5 1 2 3 1 1 2 4 7

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4.6%

12.4%

27.0%

35.9%

20.1%

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1 - Unsatisfied

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5 - Completely Satisfied

Please Comment on the quality and

116

See Below

availability of facilities.

answered question skipped question

40.0% 35.0% 30.0% 25.0% 20.0% 15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%

e ns

O er sw An

Overall, how satisfied are you with the opportunities available for recreation? (please rank with 1 being Qu es unsatisfied, and 5 being tio n: completely satisfied)

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Opportunities for Recreation

1 - Unsatisfied

259 2

5 - Completely Satisfied

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Opportunities for Recreation Comments 1 2 3 4

5 6

7 8

great so far - so much to do! The baseball grounds are great! So amazing to play women's slow pitch every summer. What avliblity we have to rely on private places The climbing wall could be bigger. I enjoy the skating ring at the high school in the winter. I wish we could have more mountain biking trails and better grooming of current ski trails.

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i dont skate and don't play hockey and neither do my kids so Fenland Rec Centre is of no use to us. If a public pool with lane swimming in salt water was built I would use it. I am disappointed that the sidewalks rebuilt several years ago took away the opportunity for bike lanes instead opting for gardens with rocks for kids to play on and dogs to pee in and for trees that keep dieing. Not sure if Sally Borden is considered public facilites, but I usually go there for fitness, and find it very clean, affordable and quite good quality. The trails around Banff are awesome - I run all winter long as well as summer. We are never allowed to play on the rec grounds rugby pitch until after spring break and this causes us (the boys highschool rugby team) to only have a limited number of home games. Usually only one all year! I think that if the field was maintained better and if the town took the time to do this earlier in the season we would be able to have more than just one home game per year. thank you. Very good All of the sports facilities are scattered around town. Could town of Banff have centralized space for all for the local community. I am not asking as for Canmore multimillion facility. I am just asking for small extension of current Rec Centre could provide a space to accommodate other sports and community groups in town. Current 'local pool' (Banff Centre) is small, outdated and cold. Current gymnastics facility is poor, outdated, dark and unsanitary. No option for outdoor splash-park.... why not?

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10 All good except for the outhouses/porta-potties at the ball field. They are not kept very clean. 11 It would be great to have a town-based fitness facility offering a gym with weights and a studio space for classes. 12 Great for the most part - too much traffic in Banff during the summer. More focus needed on promoting pedestrian forms of transportation and reducing cars from town centre. Paying for parking during summer is essential. Allow free parking in space near train station and shuttle people into town. Parking lot beside fire station needs to be used as recreational space providing a safe, permeable connection with Beaver st. 13 I only tried recreation centre once at the hockey field seems nice. And banff centre is awesome too 14 There are a few facilities but they are far to access without transportation 15 Not many evening activities and ability within walking distance 16 Everything is available 17 It's all about nature, so get out and play in the wood 18 It's good so far

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Opportunities for Recreation Comments 19 More hours open to public as I work overnight 20 Volunteer Recreations or costly ones? 21 The indoor skating rink does not offer enough public skating for families. The SSB pool does not offer enough swimming classes spaces. The gymnastics club is very crowded, definitely need a bigger space. 22 If you play hockey or curl you have somewhere to go- those of us- yes the majority of the residents don't have any public facilities to use even though we pay the majority of the taxes 23 The improvements to the Banff mini ramp are extraordinary. But the need for a concrete park is huge with the volume of skateboarders that occupy the town. 24 The rugby pitch and ball diamonds could use some better maintenance, but the hockey/curling rings are good, although underused. The classes available through the Sally B. are limited. All of these places are relatively out of the way. It would be nice to have something more direct to the town center. 25 There's is so much on our doorstep here in Banff. My reason for a score of three (low) is that I wish there was a better pool. And I wish the ski hills offered a better price for locals to ski. After all, we almost all work in tourism and are ambassadors to the sport. It works for Vail, beaver creak, keystone, etc. they have a 500. Pass for all residents of Colorado. Can we not work something out? 26 We could use things like a new skatepark which the miniramp is great but the rest is terrible . Also we could use of a disc golf place in banff , it's easy to built ,and that way no ones as to drive to Canmore to do it .. 27 Banff needs to realize how important the need for a decent permanent skateboard park is. More people skateboard in Banff regularly than people who play tennis for example. Banff also needs a decent disc golf course. 28 Would love child care at facilities so I could go to day time classes 29 There are many recreational facilities available in Banff, but I believe that the maintenance of some of the facilities is poor. 30 It would be great to have 1 recreation complex in Banff - similar to the new one in Canmore. Pool, gym/gymnastics facility, courts, climbing, etc... 31 A large enough space to facilitate sports such as gymnastics would be appreciated 32 Hard to get my children into swim lessons, I know its a small town, and not a big city, but I feel there just isnt a lot of things to do with the kids, ie spring break and winter break. 33 The Fenlands centre is a really nice place, but I feel as if the more space could be utilized. 34 amzing!! 35 I Haven't had any chance to use recreation building. 36 The accessibility and quality of all the available recreation facilities in Banff are awesome. The Banff Centre,Fenland Centre and the Rec Grounds outdoor playgrounds are very near.

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Opportunities for Recreation Comments

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37 The ice rink at Banff Community High School is great idea!! 38 I find there is a fare amount of recreational areas however if we were to loose a baseball diamond it would be a shame. It is one of the few places to play baseball in Banff. Many of us do not have a back yard to organize a game in. Specailty with the amount of people involved in organized slo-pitch and baseball in Banff it would defiantly have a big impact on the community. 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

Good Availability are very hard you need to book ahead of time. Summer access to the skating rink. We are one of a very few towns the does not have a proper recreation centre. No community pool and a proper facility for other sports, example gymnastics. We are forced to go beyond our community to seek these. Facilities tend to accessible, however, it is really the cost that is a hard pill to swallow. It is good and the availability is good Quality is good. It would be nice to have a pool with more options for swimming lessons for children. It's amazing what we fit into the footprint of our small town, and we live in one of the most amazing places in the world to recreate. I think the Town generally does an amazing job of providing and maintaining/improving facilities and I am very grateful! Expand mountain bike trails around town. No public pool, gym or decent skateboard/bmx parks. Ice times for public skating are god awful. The facilities exist but the quality of upkeep is poor. There aren't any quality fitness facilities in the downtown area. It was nice when elite fitness opened up but they are very small and they don't offer fitness classes. Yoga is downtown as well but we need an all in one facility so we don't have to be paying for several memberships at once. It would be nice to have something more accessible than the banff centre and more affordable than the banff springs.

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51 Every spring the rec grounds field is covered with wood chips and small rocks that are hazardous to rugby players. Currently the town doesn't do much to clean the pitch up. We have to walk along the pitch and pick up the larger chips and rocks but it is still not perfect. 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60

Pretty good. Woods and rocks are unacceptable on a field where contact sports are played. The town really needs a proper outdoor hockey rink. As the Rugby/soccer field is not cleared in the spring (as in many other communities) we are often limited from using it until late in the season. Excellent! The soccer / rugby field is awful... Sprinklers sticking out in the middle of the pitch. Poor drainage and poor summer maintenance.. All in all a poor job. Ive found chunks of rock pn the pitch as well, what r u ppl thinking I think the overall quality of facilties is good. There are plenty of activities to participate in, also Sally Borden Center offers many varities of sports/sport training as well. The staff are great, areas are safe and clean. Spend the money we have on access not bling or on what the top 1% â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;thinkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; we need. Pretty ok

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Opportunities for Recreation Comments 61 62 63 64 65 66

69 70 71 72 73

74 75 76 77 78

indoor arena is awesome Please do not put any more woodchips or gravel on the field this upcoming spring/summer! Tennis courts have poor maintenance, they are often used for othe r sports that ruin the court's nets, etc. Pretty good I feel that the blak death aroun the Rugby pitch is terrible, that we require a more permenant skateboard park, and a public use building, similar to the one in Middle Springs 2. We also need a community pool and gym of some sort Very few team sports for adults or kids available to a reasonable standard, particularly during winter months. Would like to see more indoor soccer, lacrosse, field hockey. Kids team sports, especially age 4+ particularly lacking. Why can't more use of BES, BCHS and SBB gyms be made. Most sports are solitary in nature: skiing, boarding, skating, hiking, climbing, biking, pilates, yoga etc. to build better community, more team sports should be encouraged, particularly outside of school hours for kids. Its a really important social skill as well as a lifestyle coice. Playgrounds are really not at all challenging for age 4+. Better design is needed. Outdoors - would really like a dedicated cross-country ski trail - up over Tunnel Mountain? where walking / other uses not allowed on trail. The Spray trail is the only other trail immediately accessible to town but gets walked on a lot. Would love to see as many outdoor recreation opportunities as possible as we are in a national park. The Rugby field used by a provincial caliber high school team as well as men's team is a little disappointing. You would think the town these teams are representing would provide them with a bit nicer of a field. Not saying a new field should be built, just proper care of the grass and making sure it actually grows making a nice field to play on would be a good start. We should have bathrooms by the ball diamonds. It would be much more family friendly and draw more people down there. The rec grounds are amazing and are in a great location. Has everything I look for. Perhaps some more crowd benches to watch the baseball or rugby Ames would be a good addition The soccer/rugby grounds are terrible quality, it needs relaying and fencing off in the winter to protect it Quite a number of facilities available but conditions aren't the greatest Opportunities are there although enhancing the facilities in place would be great for the community. Taking facilities away would damage the community culture. Im not sure why the town council is trying to change so many things, most do not participate in any community activities. Active knowledge in the community would be a great asset to the council. The Fendlands is a great facility, but where are the locker/change rooms for the curling club? ie. not the washrooms. The trails are great but the multi use trails have way too much horse poo. The new dog park ism amazing. One at be rev grounds would be a great addition. Love how many trails there are close to the town area but dog park is too far when you don't have a car and live south of the river As a rugby player, and a coach for the high school boys and girls rugby teams, I'd be happier if the Rec Grounds field didn't have dirt patches, gravel and wood chips all over it. The black running track could also be pulled away from the grass. I've been playing slo pitch for the last two summers, and other than weather delays, the fields were always ready and in decent shape.

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85 86 87

88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95

The Recreation Grounds field is an absolute mess and is unsafe to play sports on Excellent Great - so much to do! Great Some choice, maintenance poor Require more useable space for kids/families eg. better skateboard park/bike park, swimming pool/water facility of some sort (other than the Sally Borden). Yes, it's great we have green space (like Central Park, highschool field) but for much of the time, these spaces are being irrigated = wet, the ground pellets are all over the place, etc. Also, why on playgrounds do we use pebbles? Can't we find a surface (like recycled tires) that would be better, more user friendly? Also, the trails/roads to get to these parks is like an obstacle course for younger kids (kids on bikes) to manover through; parked cars, lots of traffic both foot and pedestrian, mud paths the majority of the spring/summer...better pathways to get to these places would be nice. The area for the ball diamonds could be put to better use. No municipal swimming pool Since we have winter some ten months of the year a great indoor multi use facilty would be welcomed (not just geared to athletes but also to families with small children) I think this town is sorely lacking good indoor rec facilities. Obviously there is great skiing but with a winter that is 8 months long what are the options besides the Sally B? Yes, an ice rink but that services a minority of residents. An indoor facility for tennis (which would also accommodate other sports such as badminton, basketball etc. would be great. I also feel the town lacks facilities for children (I have 2 kids under 3). An indoor play area/structure would be amazing. There are so many kids in this town and yes we love to play outdoors but an indoor physical play area would really benefit local kids. Not enough indoor team recreation opportunities in the winter. New hockey facilities are very good The Fenlands Rec Centre could use shower heads that reach further from the wall. Maintain trail systems Municipal weight room. No more dog parks one is enough Excellent! Only facilities for skating Would like to see an all recreation facility that includes other amenities like running, weight room, swimming pool would like to see a municipally owned/operated fitness facility attached to the Fenlands so I can work out when my kids are practicing.

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Opportunities for Recreation Comments 96 Banff has for too long prevented the natural evolution of mountain biking (as a way for people to enjoy nature) which has been progressing everywhere else! 97 Fenlands should include a swimming pool and gym. Sally borden use has increased a lot and there needs to be another option for water sport. Tiny pools in hotels do not "cut it" 98 good 99 available & affordable; good upkeep 100 great facilities 101 Quality - good facilities with fair availability 102 I would like to see phase 3 implemented for the fenlands rec centre, I would also like to have the dowtown skating rink be made every year. 103 Quality is good, availibility good for me 104 i would like to see more invested in a municipal leisure pool 105 We do fairly good with sports facilities, but not so good for art's facilities for public use. We don't maximize the use of some of the spaces we have - schools, seniors centre, firehall. I think we don't think beyond regular parameters in partnering - ie The Banff Centre facilities. 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115

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Lot for young kids but not much for older age groups Remember that rec is more than sports Outdoor activities Fantastic A leisure pool with a waterslide would be great, an outdoor hockey rink with boards would be good, a large gymnasium with gymnastics equip would be good as well. The existing facilities are very good, but not great. A proper indoor running track would be a very wise investment since all able bodied Most facilities are top quality in their construction if a bit oddly laid out at times, but they serve the purpose. More hiking trails around banff. excellent Sunshine Goats Eye Lodge could use some updating, its a bit of an eye sore on such as beautiful landscape

60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0%

nt ou C e ns

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n: What recreation facilities are most important to Q you? (list up to three) ue st io 70.0%

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities

Indoor - Ice

32.0%

Indoor - Gymnasium

24.3%

Indoor - Fitness

43.6%

113

Indoor - Social Spaces

11.6%

Indoor - Program / Meeting Rooms

4.6%

Indoor - Water

40.5%

105

Outdoor - Sports Fields

48.6%

126

Outdoor - Trail

64.5%

167

Outdoor - Playground

20.5%

Outdoor - Picnic & Open Space

33.2%

Outdoor - Dog Park

19.7%

Outdoor - Water

21.2%

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Please specify up to 3 specific sports or activites that are of significant interest to you

192

answered question skipped question

259 2 Indoor - Ice Indoor - Gymnasium Indoor - Fitness Indoor - Social Spaces Indoor - Program / Meeting Rooms Indoor - Water Outdoor - Sports Fields Outdoor - Trail Outdoor - Playground

Outdoor - Picnic & Open Space

10.0%

Outdoor - Dog Park

0.0%

Outdoor - Water

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53

hiking, biking (road/trail) volleyball trailing outdoor ice Mountain biking Hockey Hockey for my son dedicated cross country ski trails, swimming and pool facilities Hockey Swimming; fitness classes Soccer Mountain Biking Mountain biking cyclng swimming running Road/mountain biking Running The Rugby pitch Skating (indoor and outdoor) fencing outdoor splash park cycling hiking Hiking Ice rink Running Hiking Ski The river to swim Music Playing / Biking + Hiking / Swimming Climbing hiking Gymnastics mountain biking Tennis Disc golf Skateboarding Rugby Skiing alpine and cross country Disc golf Skateboarding Biking Skateboarding Skateboarding Skating Family biking Skateboarding Play grounds Rugby Trail running Gymnastics Yoga softball biking Gymnastics swimming climbing

fitness, outdoor skating snowboarding xcountry skiing

picnic cross country skiing touch football hackey sack

indoor programming for adults and kids dog park dedicated hiking trails

swimming and the baseball diamonds are my number one dedicated bike paths

baseball children's outdoor sports Biking kayaking curling Skiing skiing

golf

hiking climbing swimming

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strength-training and fitness classes cycling Swimming Poo Yoga Running Hiking the gazebo for picnic and BBQ pits for eating

football Climbing Swimming Canoeing Swimming

Hiking

Volleyball (Outdoor filed would be awesome)

bike trails skateboarding Hiking yoga swimming Biking

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Climbing climbing

camping cycling Biking canoeing outdoor hiking Hiking

skateboarding and snowboarding Disc golf downhill mtn biking running

motocross mountain biking

curling weightlifting

hiking/walking/bike trails and basketball

hockey

bocce ball

54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113

Gymnastics swimming baseball/t-ball? Skiing Hockey Soccer better dog park and rugby field rock climbing hiking skiing basketball Ice skating indoors for the kids swimming biking cross country ski tennis hiking Baseball hiking and swimming Hiking canyoning scuba diving The ball diamonds are the most important I play in two leagues and have for 5 years softball Basketball volleyball badminton swimming biking cross country skiing Ski skate canoe I use the ball diamonds every week and would The Banff Slo pitch league is part of this community and would hate to see if go Swimming pool and gymnastics space tennis bad menton court basketball court curling; gymnastics; swimming swimming Adult drop-in gymnastics tennis mountain biking Ice Hockey Soccer Ice Skating Roller Derby Snowboarding Running trails fitness center swimming Mountain biking Running Strength training Aquatics and skating ice and roller Roller Derby Rugby weight lifting running Hockey Mountain Biking Hiking Pilates yoga and aerobic classes Curling skating picnic-ing Rugby and hot tubbing Softball curling hiking Indoor tennis Softball Rugby Slow pitch hockey Rugby and soccer Softball skating hiking Baseball hiking cycling Volleyball figure skating rugby Soccer Rugby Baseball (Slow pitch) Golf Rugby! cycling snowborarding hiking Leave the 3 baseball diamonds / other ball playing fields alone Stop 'changing' things and maintain / renovation what we have Rugby Baseball soccer softball basketball squash swimming curling rugby baseball Softball Softball and softball Rugby Baseball / Slow Pitch Bike/hike trails tennis courts outdoor rock climbing Soccer Rugby Hockey Swimming weight training hockey Why can't we ave a league as good as Canmore? Lacrosse field hockey for grown ups Indoor soccer for kids year round Trail running Mountain biking rugby swimming slowpitch soccor hockey Basketball Rugby fields ball diamonds and trails Ultimate frisbee rugby x-country running

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Tennis - year round Soccer Rugby Softball!!! Softball Hiking Kayaking Softball I play in both leagues in banff it is a gr my 4 yr old lives playing in the park and having picnics Hockey softball and golf(I realize that's not part of survey) skiing working out feilds Soccer Swimming biking hiking Rugby biking walking Baseball! Hockey Baseball baseball and baseball Along with the parks Slo-pitch hockey Baseball/slo pitch Rugby slowpitch hiking Rugby slowpitch hiking Training softball play with dog ladies league slo pitch and mixed league slo pitch just having a field to do misc stuff ie: bocce Trailling cross country skiing Haki-sac Volleyball Snowboarding Touch Football Biking - Road/Trail Outdoor skating x-country skiing Hiking Fitness Picnic Hiking canoeing backcountry skiing Outdoor Ice Cycling canoeing racquet sports Biking climbing hiking water park/water place area much of the year we can't easily go outside so we are constantly looking for alternative sports ideas (other than skiing of course) water park A gym center (indoor) that can be opened up for free-play Yes, I would like playgrounds to be improved better equipment for all ages (example: Calgary zoo playground that grows with the kids) Better care of the sports fields; more options of use (right now baseball is the only thing there? there are other sports that could play there too?) climbing hiking language classes Would be great to have a warm pool for the kids in winter (Sally Borden too cold and cannot swim at Douglas Fir) Xc skiing XC biking Road cycling Swim classes and an indoor multi use facilty for kids and families plus a social place of gathering, free? Skiing Volleyball indoor soccer hiking Need additonal park space on north / east side of the bridge Hockey Tennis Biking Hockey/Skating Swimming curling GYMNASTICS Curling aerobic classes road biking Swimming Curling Skating Golf Cycling curling walking Mountain bike trails cross country ski cycling hiking Curling Mountain Biking Swimming XC Skiing skating cross country skking cycling walking & hiking; Baseball hockey Biking hockey for kids court/gym space Hiking swimming and running hockey rugby biking

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crossfit

etc

171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191

Hockey Hockey hiking skiing Biking Hockey swimming gymnastics hiking Cycling walking and hiking Library Ski Walk dog but not at dog park Hiking Soccer hockey and swimmimg canoeing Camping Hockey love the skiing close at hand Hockey Hockey alpine skiing

dog park Baseball swiming

swimming

hiking

skiing

gardening hiking

photography

ball

skiing

walking trails in town backcountry and crosscountry ski skiing

cycle swim cycling

Skating hiking

Hiking biking

fitness classes fitness classes cross country skiing

hiking trails hiking trails the arts

kayak

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hiking/dog walking and biking and paddling

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Lack of Free time

54.8%

142

User fees (cost prohibitive)

22.8%

Cost of personal equipment

13.1%

Lack of facilities

24.3%

Poor quality facilities

15.4%

13.1%

Too far to travel

6.6%

Lack of childcare

8.9%

Lack of information

12.7%

Language barrier

0.0%

Health or mobility issues

0.8%

Facility service hours

12.4%

9.3%

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Lack of recreation programs of

interest/appropriate for age group

Not interested

answered question skipped question

60.0%

po es R

n: io st ue Q

What prevents you from participating in more recreational activities? (choose all that apply)

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Opportunities for Recreation

259 2

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

n/c n/c n/c facilities have too many people! n/c more cross country ski trails starting from town Footbridge to rec grounds from central park Pool. Indoor walking trail. outdoor ice n/c n/c Biking. Xc biking, dh biking Weight room facilities at the Fenlands. Tennis courts put back into use that the Fenlands. On the old parking side of the curling area, put in a summertime sand filled volleyball court. (Years past, Mel's used to hold a summertime outdoor beach volleyball tournment) More multi purpose space More extensive recreation facility that, provides a sense of community as well Communication with residents. More ads in papers and on social profiles. (1) A dedicated hiking trail (without horses or bikes tearing it up), clearly signed, taking people up to the upper Hot Springs. Living on Mountain Ave, I get stopped on an almost daily basis by people with a Town of Banff map in hand, trying to figure out how to get to the Upper Hot Springs where the sidewalk ends. (2) Dedicated biking lanes that are not "shared" with everyone else (including cars, walkers, horses, babystrollers) - for recreational cyclists as well as people who use their bikes instead of vehicles for transportation when possible. (3) Dedicated cross country ski trails that are groomed for skate skiing and classic that are not also open for walkers, snowshoers or bikes with fat tires. aquatics Do not eliminate any diamonds at rec grounds Public weight room and pool Public swimming facilities. Indoor gym/sport facilities. Combined with current ice surface. Indoor turfed field. It could be used for many sports during the winter and rainy months for dry land training. Soccer, rugby, dry land for hockey etc Better bike park I think money and time would be much better spent repairing the roads, such as Cougar Street, Squirrel Street etc. It would be nice to have fitness facilities (gym/classes) and a pool at the Fenlands. Reopening previously closed mountain biking trails. public swimming pool We participate extensively in recreational activities. The town has a wide variety of recreational facilities, the most important of which is our beautiful backyard! The emphasis does not need to be on building more, but maintaining what we have and ensuring that recreational activities are accessible to all residents (i.e. particularly low income, immigrants). The town has many wonderful initiatives to promote active involvement already. Opportunities to introduce local/uniquely Canadian sports/recreational activities to newcomers would be a suggestion (i.e. more "learn to" sessions -- skilled or interested community members could lead sessions, i.e. Banff Hockey Academy). We do not support more organized competitions and events (i.e. Gran Fondo, Marathons) in Banff. Thank you! When I do strength training, I go to the Sally Borden Gym. If there was a 50m pool, I'd be tempted to swim more often, but it's not too important. For climbing, I go to Canmore - although the new gym is too much focused on families and not enough on "serious" climbers. We have a private climbing gym there. Overall, I feel Banff provides a lot of recreation facilities. Especially with the tracksetting on trails around Banff for XC skiing (which I use mostly for winter-running). Add rec fee/levy to personal property taxes If the pitch was better maintained we could play more games at home, in front of our home crowd that want to see us succeed. There has been mention of a town swimming pool. Not necessary because the Sally Borden pool and facility serves the town very well and is affordable to all with a good range of programs.

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Awareness I think is a big obstacle for me. I'm not sure where to go to find what is available or I am not seeing it advertised when it does become available.

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58

Making a centralized facility by expanding of Rec Centre to accommodate other sports activities. So that makes parents are not running around in vehicles dropping children to dance class in compound to swimming at Banff Centre, Karate doujou, Gymnastics, e.t.c. within an few hours period. What is our mandate to live in a National Park town doesn't present any environmental to our life style. Swimming pool - family focused Outdoor water splash-park Indoor playground Upkeep of existing facilities is important. Cycling in downtown Banff is dangerous. - fitness centre with a weight room and a studio for classes As above. Cycle lanes. Traffic reducing measures. More interactive public space. Develop more winter sports facilities, because winter is so long, suck small place can practice snowboarding or skiing stuff Facilities closer to downtown, Maybe dance classes for adults, Cheaper cost for programs/memberships Meeting spaces for low cost for spcial interest groups Better trail maintenance when icy. Just keep beautiful banff, banff pls NA Mare facilities, better hours, more bike trails and walking, less tourist More outdoor Venues - aka Folk Festivlas, BBQ's, Water Parks Volleyball Field, More picnick/firepit area, Bike Trails (In town) A town public pool. A gymnastics club building or bigger facilities. More indoor skating hours. decent public pool with minimal chlorine properly maintained fields proper space for gymnastics multi-use space not ice space enhanced trails new pool Frisbee golf, tennis court, expand the dog park Skate park. Disc golf park. Bike trails. Concrete Skateboard Park, Dog Park, Bike Trails Having more classes available for drop in. This is a service oriented community and time off is never guaranteed. Make it affordable. Dress up the rugby pitch a bit. It's very run down but it does see a lot of traffic. And please do something about the black death. It's incredibly painful to skid on. Adorable skiing for locals. Lets make use of our population. We should all be ambassadors. I think the hills need a price check in general. If you cut the cost in half, would you get twice the season pAss sales? Then creating more jobs and revenue in F &. B, hotels etc? Just wondering.... Disc golf course New skatepark, something more solid. Better maintanence of the soccer/rugby fields Disc golf would be pretty cool! A new top of the line skatepark , maybe a designated disc golf area Permanent concrete skate park and a disc golf course with baskets Family Oriented Health & Fitness Programs, More Trails and Hiking, a centre similar to Canmore's new Fitness Centre

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Concrete skatepark,downhill mtn biking on norquey, oh and concrete skatepark

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I'd love to see indoor ice skating available year-round. Paved bike trails further away from the TCH. Splash Park (?) more public swim hours for non-members improved beach area at johnson lake keep maintaining and building great mtn bike trails Permanent concrete skatepark Down hill my biking, bridge to recreation grounds-easier access, child care (low cost) for fitness facilities/classes Since rugby is quite big in Banff, I believe that good maintenance of the rugby pitch at the rec grounds will have a significant impact in Banff. Additionally, a better running track would be very convenient. Trail running group Running clinics A complete recreation facility would be well received in our community. One that has a pool, gymnasium, gymnastics facilites, climbing, fitness, childcare, meeting rooms, etc... More bike trails. Better signs for tourists off piste. I love our town and love that we're active, difficult question to answer. Gymnastics Childcare during gym use, a large gym for gymnastics, not a makeshift one in a church, more opportunity for locals to use facilities at a much discounted rate (the gondola USED to be free for us)

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Trampoline gym. The one at the church is alright but as a teenager in school, the hours of operation are hard to catch considering they're only open during school hours. Having a trampoline gym would be very beneficial to skiers in banff as they can train there. rugby field!!! - some event that everybody could attend. None the skate board park was upgraded last year, but my sons wish to have been more upgraded like Camore has. bike park tennis court More affordable rates for locals at the banff center. Better prices, more information to the community, improving the ball fields, not destroying them. better field care Put up more indoor facilities or recreation area, make the cost lower or if possible free! Climbing gym Recreation center that has more than ice skating - such as 1. swimming facility geared towards kids of all ages 2. Subsidized space for program such as gymnastics, dance, karate, indoor soccer. 3. better biking paths/routes around town to encourage individuals, families, and kids to bike more and drive less. ie) biking path across the bridge, biking paths across from bridge to the schools to avoid busy roads and sidewalks. Kids indoor gym facility during the winter time I love love love the outdoor ice rink at the highschool. The ball diamonds are part of my life. It could be improved by providing a better concession stand and bathrooms. You would have the tourists use these facilities as well Skatepark, continued upkeep or expansion of bike park, further enhancing the Fenlands the open recreation ground community swimming pool; improved gymnastics facilities; I would love to see a bigger facility for the Banff Gymnastics club, which manages amazingly well with the small space it has. Although my children are now school age, I feel the Town should have a larger facility without outdoor play space to house a playschool or Waldorf program so that all families wanting access are able to participate. Indoor tennis courts would be awesome, given how long a winter we have here.

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses

89 90 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110

111 112

113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124

Swimming Pool , Indoor soccer facilty Roller Derby, Bus transit to the Banff Center, Gym, Pool and a concrete skate park. Multiplex for multiple sports to be played Roller/soccer rink for adults and kids Public gym Taking care of trails and green spaces including planting trees where some were cut like in central park The facilities such as The Sally Borden Building and the Recreation Center are quite nice except that without transportation, they are a little hard to reach, somehow moving them closer or creating Roam bus paths would significantly help. Community Swimming pool, workout/gym facilities love to see the bike path connect from hiway to 1a (not ride through town) Pool, Fitness weight room gym, -a bigger gym with more opportunity for fitness classes -a better situated recreation facility. Within walking distance of the town. -extension of the Rec centre could be useful in providing more benefits for the community a new swimming pool The ice rink and curling sheets should be open all year round. Relaxed policing of drinking in the park. A couple of beers during a BBQ should be overlooked. A junior club rugby team for ages 15-18 A better cleaning of the rugby pitch and a removal of snow. Great job on ball fields, keep up the good work there! A pool would be nice. Greenhouses are good. Indoor tennis Keep the baseball diamonds The Banff Rec Grounds need better care. Fireworks should not be permitted on the field on special events such as Canada Day. It leaves debris all over the field forcing local clubs and schools to clean it up. The field deserves respect like the Fenlands Rec Centre. The ground need better maintenance; such as a fence around the field to prevent elk droppings. The field also need to be more consistently maintained. Thank you A proper outdoor rink, the kids in that community are deprived of it. I couldn't imagine growing up with out a proper outdoor hockey rink. The recreation grounds rugby/soccer field has been rather sub-par for a while now. Rugby is a growing sport in banff having the mens team as well as a high school and high school girls team. The high school boys team has also won the previous three zone titles and in the past two years have finished first and second respectively in the province. A refurbished field would only help insure greater successes for all three teams in the future. One can also not forget the feeling of community when rugby is being played on our home turf and I believe many people would love to see it refurbished. Banff, being the tourist town that it is and having people travelling from all over the world to work and visit here it makes sense to fix up the field also for uses of soccer as well. Soccer is the most l d of rugby/soccer t i th ld fields d i to accommodate idl i i use C of field d I during b li thefishort d and fi limited ld ld bi l t it t l i t f diff t t dh l t th it b d Th k Clearing season.

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Pedestrian bridge connecting the rec grounds and central park. Have bigger slo-pitch field would allow Banff to host tournaments Developing an alternative route for traffic allowing Banff ave be pedestrian only from Wolf to Grizzly St. Better cleaner fields for outdoor sports Clubhouse down @ the fields for rugby soccer and baseball.. To encourage other teams to come so we can host tournaments Public Golf course, Clubhouse for Rugby, Soccer & Baseball Replace the running track around the rugby field. There have been too many injuries over the years on it, it is not safe at all. Banff is known as an outdoor destination and our facilities should reflect our interest in them. I've lived in Banff for past ten years, I'm currently in ottawa for 1 year and will be returning to Banff. I'd like to see a new playground, or childrens area . There is not many places to bring kids to play other than at the school playground. Focus on making Banff more family friendly. New is not better. The track around the rugby pitch! Being tackled into it hurts, scars, and leaves whatever it is that is on it e,bedded in your skin, and that can't be healthy. indoor soccer gym

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses 125 1. Fix the soccer field. Go to Canmore and see theirs. make one similar. (Soft grass, permanent lines, no crazy black stuff around the edge, proper out of bounds area) Ours is dangerous, covered in gravel and large woodchips and rock hard. 2. Make dog park bigger!! 126 Upgrade slo-Pitch facilities 127 Developing a better field and better facilitation for spectators at the rec grounds. 128 Softball Fiels should be upgraded with dugouts. 129 Keep the 3 baseball fields! 130 Tennis courts, soccer fields, hike/bike trails 131 Make Norquay a biking hill 132 More biking trails relatively close to town 133 bb 134 A community swimming pool added to our awesome new rec facility. A community gym added to the same. User fees that aren't financially crippling to lower income earners, the Banff Springs gym prices are ridiculous and the Banff Centre is out of the way. 135 Changing rooms/Showering facilities at the rec grounds would be great. So I don't have to get dressed/ undressed on the open field. 136 Team based sports at higher standard, with more variety. Evening sessions would help. 137 bettervbaseball fields 138 Cross country ski trail. Increased use of new recreation centre for more fitness classes and variety of classes. Recreation board/informal connections for people wanting to go mountain biking or other activities in a group. 139 The fact the Banff has no/has never had an aquatic facility is outrageous! Many small towns in BC have amazing aquatic centers Fernie, Revelstoke, Kimberly etc, are all great examples of towns similar to Banff. Where tourism is important to the town and funding of municipal facilities. I feel Banff should look into building a facility similar to Revelstok or Fernie. A new skateboard park I think would be a great addition to the town. Especially if a concrete park where to be built, which would allow for less long term Maintenance and less money spent on repair. Unlike the current skateboard park. Further development of the mountain bike trails is also great for the town. Developing the trail system opens a whole new group of visitors to more frequently visit Banff, to take advantage of the world class mountain biking Banff could potentially offer.

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140 none 141 A new basketball court dedicated to basketball. Football teams. 142 Bathrooms by ball diamonds, better poop removal for fields (rugby and baseball) Town should take part in more activities down there. 143 Have indoor floor hockey Good gym 144 More x-country trails, perhaps map availability of what we have available. Night lights at the rec field (like stadium lights) but put hem on a timer perhaps so it does not interfere with wildlife or even the people who live around there. Maybe a club house for the different sport teams that are based in Banff , it can be accessed by public and athletes. 145 Indoor tennis courts Enhanced biking trails Increased dog park size 146 Benefit to town publicity 147 Soccer/rugby field and fencing to protect spectators from flying baseballs 148 Fix the "black death" running track around the rugby field. The track is not maintained properly for athletic use and as a result should be dugout and re-turfed to make the whole field safer and more appealing 149 Up keep on the baseball fields!! The fields are used every Sunday all summer long! It's an amazing time for locals to get together and enjoy our summers!! 150 Enhancing The Running track at The recreational Grounds, Lights for The softbal diamonds for more Softball at night. more paved trails for biking and running

Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses 151 152 153 154 155

Better park facilities a play ground in central park would be great! Setting up a permanent skateboard park for skateboarders. Using a parking lot isn't the solution. more feilds on the down town side of the bridge. SOFTBALL FIELDS The rec fields/baseball diamonds are under used and would be a great place for a second dog park. The current one is used 365 days a year which the fields are not. Also pet travel is huge!

156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163

Would love to see a trail connecting Vermillion lakes road and the Cave & Basin and maybe a small dog park at the rec grounds Pool Better maintenance of the rec grounds grass, and removal of the 'Black Death' running track around the field. Baseball fields, baseball fields, baseball fields An outdoor boarded hockey rink like they have on Canmore Maintenance of the ball parks. Hiking trails. Updated pool. Larger dog park, keep the ball diamonds as it is a great social spot for locals. Disc golf course Men's baseball league 1. 2. & 3. Upkeep/modifications/proper investment into the rec grounds. 1. 2. & 3. Upkeep/modifications/proper investment into the rec grounds. Banff could use one more Rugby/Soccer field. An indoor field would be an incredibly well spent investment for the BBRC, BCHS Rugby teams and will offer the opportunity for Banff kids to participate in the recreational soccer league that is within Canmore and the Bow Valley. Within the next 5 years I would like to see the Recreation grounds field to be reworked (remove black death) and possibly add an indoor field for rugby and soccer training. i think the town is doing a fantastic job within the existing parameters!! n/a More cross country ski trails - starting from town NA Prevents: "Too many people" None None none We need to increase the size of the dog park. Footbridge Central park to Rec. Grounds Pool, Indoor walking Trail Build Up Outdoor Ice None None Better cycling trails for all ability levels. Bike park made better Bike trail network in town Big Chess set in Central Park! more child centered spaces. Parentlink is too small, needs a bigger space!! winter swings that don't get taken down for kiddos. More tennis courts. More trail maintenance on trails that horses use!! they do so much damage and are very disruptive. Improved (Bigger and taller) climbing gym. Bigger and or more green houses. \

164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses

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185 actually the existing recreation facilities are quite good. 186 water park/pool open up the Fenlands to more activities: curling rink could be used as a ball hockey surface/indoor basketball? Fenlands needs to open up more public skates/family skate times. Improve the playgrounds and sports fields. 187 More flexible hours- ie public skating outside of office hours- continue the high school winter ice rink- it is fantastic. More social programming in existing facilities- ie community classes and arts workshops at the Fenlands centre. Continue to reinvest the existing recreation facilities to keep them in good condition- the basketball and tennis courts are so popular and look great. 188 Enhanced cycling routes/connectivity + expanded trail network and development 189 Indoor swimming, more bike trails 190 Trail signage programme. Transit. Building a rec centre that has more than Ice 191 Indoor spaces and swimming 192 An indoor physical play area/climbing structure for kids It is a shame the swings are removed from the parks in the winter so perhaps some fencing so the swings can be left up 193 An indoor multi-use sport surface, league access to school facilities when not in use, quality of the existing soccer field 194 Bike trails or multi use trails physically separated from road, traffic and parked cars, throughout townsite. More parks in south end of town. Bright, airy public fitness centre that doesn't smell or play raucous music 195 Pool / waterslide at recreation centre conference facility at recreation centre better parks on north / east side of bridge 196 -Working with the Banff Centre to increase SBB hours -Improving the rugby/soccer pitch -Showers at the Fenlands Rec Centre that don't require you to 'kiss' the wall (i.e. longer shower heads) 197 Better trail system - bike lanes and off road trails 198 Multi purpose rec facility with swimming, gym combined axtivuties in one spot 199 pool 200 continued maintenance of our facilities weight room continues support of our non for profit leagues 201 Indoor community pool - not the Sally B! 202 INDOOR POOL MORE AFFORDABLE REC OPPORTUNITIES FOR FAMILIES 203 I'd really like to see a finess facility (weights) at the Fenlands. Not interested in much else indoors ie/Sally Borden and the weightroom is often very congested. I do feel a little ripped off that so much of my tax dollars has gone into the fenlands for just a couple of user groups, It needs to be more inclusive, 204 Rugby field 205 Not building anything 206 Aerobic classes, curling facilities 207 full indoor gym, with fitness equipment as part of Rec Centre 208 more programs for children 209 Fitness center, keeping existing faciltilies up to standards. 210 n/a 211 Badminton courts Municipal swimming pool easily accessible Small running trail 212 Fitness/weight facility at Fenlands 213 n/a 214 Na 215 Mountain bike trails. Expand the shoulder and add bike lanes between banff and Louise on the 1A 216 Fenlands gym and pool, Trails within town could be improved. i.e.: trail alongside cave avenue could be improved. Some trails are beaten down and need maintenance, ie. bow river trails and trail to surprise corner. Some should be paved due to high use. improve or better maintain existing trails.. 217 A gym at the fenlands would be great for all the parents that are here all the time

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229

230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246

Better summer and winter trail facilities. Publuc Swimming pool other than SB n/a Adding locker room and change room to curling rink create easier access use from townsite to Mt. Norquay for those walking, cycling etc. Animal guards on roadway difficult to cross. Create alternate way to bypass Roller rink outdoor rink All good Expension of the Fenland facility- pool and gym Tennis court - need update Bike lanes, outdoor rinks with boards pool and gym Better ball diamond please enlarge dog park, remove black death and improve rugby/soccer field, continue to expand trail system Swimming pool Continue outdoor rink at h/s Maintain 3 diamonds & rugby pitch Maintain support for non-for profit groups, BMH, curling club, ball leaguesn Phase 3 of the rec centre, upgrade or more playgrounds none. we don't need much more facility wise. Nothing at the moment more trails bike lanes general program space Bobsled Pool Water park community pool skateboard park outdoor rink with boards Bike lanes, cross country, moutainbike trails swimming pool beginners fitness and yoga programs Complete all phases of the new rec centre cultural spaces for exploring arts and meetings expanding the gardening possibilities Banff life for an older age group, more mtn bike trails, legacy trail maintain trails Q6: weather. Extended library hours. We are well served. Outdoor gym, dedicated bike trails Fields and equal access on weekends, trails from middle springs to downtown better maintenance. less organized sport outdoor sport circuits better use of exitsing facilities (ex. more sports in Fenlands)

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Recreation Facility Master Plan - Preliminary Survey Important Recreational Facilities Comments Open Ended Responses 247 Swimming pool 248 Cross country skiing loop of town continue outdoor ice skating facilities 249 A complete rec centre simlar to elevation place' with early childhood development programs and childcare 250 don know 251 Indoor facilities that complement existing facilites and accomodate users looking for recreation opportunities that are differnent than the current season 252 Housing most of the indoor recreation activities in one place. Bringing in higher profile competitions, tournaments and events. Creating a place for the local users in the town to feel valued and well looked after. 253 Trails. More tennis courts. Biking trails for children 254 No needs 255 Adding the next phase to the Fenlands. Swimming pool and a gym. 256 Adding the next phase to the Fenlands. Swimming pool and a gym. 257 Expansion of Fenlands to include a gym and pool. A natural playground in town. A public food garden 258 community arts centre!! facility for the public to do ceramics, painting, sculpture etc.... The banff centre is great, but it is less available to the public and more geared towards professionals and students. A member of the community must pay and attend a limited time class just to get some work time there... I think a more accessible and public facility would be a great addition to the community. Also, if the Town could assist in x-country skiing trail grooming duirng the winter, that would be a great way to support local recreational activities.

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6.2 Open house boards Recreation Facilites Master Plan — Playgrounds

You told us

• Improve outdoor play areas

Goals

Key findings

• No playgrounds east of Banff Avenue means that some residents have to walk over 15 minutes • Residential density is increasing east of Banff Avenue

• Increase the use of recreational facilities, parks and trails (Banff Community Plan) • Provide a playground within a 10 minute walk of all residential areas

Stay connected banff.ca/recplan

Key findings

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Goals

• National trend toward individual, flexible, informal recreation • Skateboard facilities temporarily located on parking spots • Winter use of Recreation Grounds very limited • League softball currently occurs 1–2 nights a week and one full day per week, 4 months of year • National trends in recreation are toward more informal, low-intensity activities and less structured, strenuous recreation and team sports

• A planned but flexible system of open spaces, trails and parks • Recreational facilities that also appeal to visitors and can host events

A R

• on town owned corner lot near High School grounds by removing trees • or through the acquisition of 1 or 2 residential lots at market cost

You told us

• 49% of those surveyed named sports fields as one of their top 3 most important recreational facilities • 33% named picnic & open space and 20% Dog Park • Consider building a field house

Key recommendations A

Key recommendations

A. Develop a new playground east of Banff Avenue.

Recreation Facilites Master Plan — Parks and Playing Fields

Map Legend Walking distances: yellow = 5 minutes pink = 10 minutes blue = 15 minutes

A. Central Park

• Preserve as passive green space, with no further facilities development • Do not add formal playing fields, facilities or expand washroom footprint • Expand public art/children’s play area with custom Banff centric pieces

B. Recreation Grounds Undertake site plan to upgrade the park; consider: • Remove track and reconfigure sports fields • Winter off-leash dog park on a ball diamond • Establish a permanent location for the skate park • Remove or relocate the bike park • A new multi-use building

Stay connected banff.ca/recplan

Recreation Facilites Master Plan — Trails You told us

• 65% of those surveyed named trails as one of their top 3 most important recreational facilities

Goals

Key findings

• National trend toward individual, flexible, informal recreation such as walking and biking • A new pedestrian and cycling bridge due to open soon

• A planned but flexible system of open spaces, trails and parks • Recreational facilities that also appeal to visitors and can host events • Active commuting to work by residents

Marm

Street

De St

il D

Hoo

ail

Town Hall Banff Park Museum National Historic Site

1 2

Bow Falls

Parks Canada Administration Building Surprise Corner Viewpoint

4 5

Banff Springs Hotel National Historic Site

The Banff Centre

Bus Depot

Police Station

Recreation Centre Information Centre

Sp ra

er y Riv

Hospital Public Washrooms

Spray River Trailhead

Trans-Canada Trail Multiple Use Trails Pedestrian Only Trails - No Bicycles Roadside Routes or Connections Recommended Bicycle Routes

Uppe r Ho t Sp rings

Reference Scale 1:6,500 0

0 .2 5

0 .5

Tr ail

1 Kilometres

yR ra

0.125

0.25

0.5

Lo ver

y Ri

Spra

iver

Ru n

Miles

dle

Tr ai

A. As part of a new Trails Master Plan, classify all trails Upper Hot Springs

and apply standards based on their use priority, including surface and increased winter maintenance

B. Improve pedestrian and bicycle access to The Fenlands, Banff Recreation Centre, Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre

Key findings

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Goals

A R

Golf Cours e Roa d

Trailhead Kiosks

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Tra

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Lower Lo op

Sq uir re l St re et a

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Bear Street

Banff Avenue

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Middle Springs Wildlife Corridor NO ACCESS

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3 Cascade Cascade Gardens Gardens

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Recreation Grounds

ra Sp

ail

Ca ri b ou Stre e t

Bu f f a l o Stre e t

Bow River

Cave Avenue

Cave & Basin National Historic Site

ce Tr

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Marsh Loop

Tunnel Mountain Campground

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Central Park

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Antelope

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You told us

• Provide space for a wider range of users and create a more inclusive, community feel • Desire for more pool options

• • • •

• Ice uses dominate the newly rebuilt Fenlands and summer bookings are low • League curling currently only occurs three nights a week, from October to March • Fenlands meeting room bookings are low • The Town has no athletic floor space to offer • Dance, gymnastics and martial arts all occur in other facilities

Increase the use of recreational facilities, parks and trails (Banff Community Plan) Maximize municipal facility access potential; multi-season, day and evening Increase operating cost recovery Recreational facilities that also appeal to visitors and can host events

Key recommendations A

Key recommendations ay hw a Hig nad Ca nsTra

Recreation Facilites Master Plan — Indoor

A. Fenlands Ice Arenas and Curling

• Expand dry floor uses (such as indoor soccer) in both summer and shoulder seasons, possibly by shortening the curling season Fenlands Meeting Room • Retrofit at least one meeting room to accommodate dance or martial arts on athletic floor

B. 101 Bear St • Convert existing single use rooms to multi-use • Create additional space for Parent Link

C. Pave and widen the Cave Avenue trail to better connect with the trails at Cave and Basin and Sundance Canyon

Stay connected banff.ca/recplan

C. Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation

• Town to consider capital contributions to upgrade the accessibility and family appeal of pool

Stay connected banff.ca/recplan

6.3 Second survey results

A R

T F

nt ou

T F

C e ns po es

sw An Yes

n: io st ue Do You Reside in Banff Q

Appendix 3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

88.7%

220

11.3%

A R D answered question

248

skipped question

Do you reside in Banff?

Yes No

Appendix #3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

Centre to upgrade the accessibility and family appeal of pool

5.00 4.00 3.00 2.00 1.00

A. Expand dry floor uses at the Fenlands (such as indoor soccer) in both summer and shoulder seasons, possibly by shortening the curling season

A ve (o ra pi ge ni on at ed ) O pi Re nio sp na on te se d C ou nt

C ou nt

Ra t in g

237

3.90 78%

179

18 9%

7 2.95%

11 4.64%

36 15.19%

70 29.54%

113 47.68% 183 91.04% 4.14 83%

237

4.35 87%

201

T F

A R D 21 14%

8 3.38%

13 5.49%

92 38.82%

63 26.58%

61 25.74%

124 85.52% 3.66 73%

237

4.08 82%

145

33 24%

13 5.49%

20 8.44%

98 41.35%

45 18.99%

61 25.74%

106 76.26% 3.51 70%

237

3.87 77%

139

52 26%

27 11.39%

25 10.55%

40 16.88%

48 20.25%

97 40.93% 145 73.60% 3.69 74%

237

B. Create additional space for Parent Link, possibly at 101 C. Town to consider capital contributions to the Banff

Re sp on se

88 37.13% 137 76.54% 3.68 74%

B. Convert existing single-use rooms to multi-use at 101

Bear St.

(o pi ni on at Ra ed t in ) g A ve ra ge

49 20.68%

A. Retrofit at least one meeting room at the Fenlands to

Bear St.

G LY

58 24.47%

20 8.44%

soccer) in both summer and shoulder seasons, possibly

accommodate dance or martial arts on athletic floor

RE E RO N

G 4

22 9.28%

A. Expand dry floor uses at the Fenlands (such as indoor by shortening the curling season

2 C om (o bi pi ne ni on d at D ed IS A ) G ST RE RO E N G 2 LY 1

42 23%

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following recommendations to address indoor facility use: Use a scale of 1 to 5, where ONE is “DISAGREE Strongly” and FIVE is “AGREE Strongly”

Q ue st io

ns :

Indoor

A. Retrofit at least one meeting room at the Fenlands to accommodate dance or martial arts on athletic floor

B. Convert existing single-use rooms to multi-use at 101 Bear St.

B. Create additional space for Parent Link, possibly at 101 Bear St.

3.83 77% answered question skipped question

C. Town to consider capital contributions to the Banff Centre to upgrade the accessibility and family appeal of pool

197 237 16

Appendix #3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following recommendations to address Parks and Playing Fields use: Use a scale of 1 to 5, where ONE is “DISAGREE Strongly” and FIVE is “AGREE Strongly”

no further facility development (do not add formal

41 17.83%

53 23.04%

63 36.21%

26 11.30%

37 16.09%

56 24.35%

62 26.96%

49 21.30%

22 11.83%

6 2.61%

16 6.96%

44 19.13%

46 28.22%

19 8.26%

27 11.74%

67 29.13%

T F

101 43.91% 154 81.48%

3.89 78%

230

4.03

80.5%

189

111 63.79%

3.31 66%

230

3.28

65.6%

174

68 29.57%

96 41.74% 164 88.17%

4.01 80%

230

4.24

84.7%

186

50 21.74%

67 29.13% 117 71.78%

3.52 70%

230

3.64

72.8%

163

playing fields, facilities, or expand washroom footprint) A. Expand public art/children’s play area in Central Park with custom Banff centric pieces B. Undertake site plan to upgrade the recreation grounds; B. i. With site plan, consider: Remove track and reconfigure rugby/soccer pitch B. ii. With site plan, consider: Remove outfield fencing for Sulphur softball diamond to allow for a combined soccer pitch / softball field B. iii With site plan, consider: Winter off leash dog park on a ball diamond B. iv. With site plan, consider: Establish a permanent location for the skate park B. v. With site plan, consider: Removal or relocation of bike park B. vi. With site plan, consider: A new multi-use building

5.00 4.00 3.00 2.00 1.00

A. Preserve as passive green space in Central Park, with no further facility development (do not add formal playing fields, facilities, or expand washroom footprint)

A. Expand public art/children’s play area in Central Park with custom Banff centric pieces

e C ou nt Ra tin g (O Av er pi a ni on ge at ed ) O pi R e n io sp na on te se d C ou nt

20 8.70%

Re sp on s

15 6.52%

ni on at Ra ed tin ) g A (T O ver T A age L)

35 18.52%

A. Preserve as passive green space in Central Park, with

(o pi

G RE E RO N G LY 4 & 5 5

C om 2 & 1

(O pi

: ue st io ns Q

bi ne d ni on at D ed IS ) A G ST RE E RO N G LY 2 1

Parks and Playing Fields

A R D

61 37.20%

32 13.91%

29 12.61%

66 28.70%

53 23.04%

50 21.74%

103 62.80%

3.26 65%

230

3.20

63.9%

164

74 37.95%

56 24.35%

18 7.83%

35 15.22%

41 17.83%

80 34.78% 121 62.05%

3.31 66%

230

3.10

61.9%

195

29 16.11%

12 5.22%

17 7.39%

50 21.74%

59 25.65%

92 40.00% 151 83.89%

3.88 78%

230

4.08

81.6%

180

92 59.74%

55 23.91%

37 16.09%

76 33.04%

29 12.61%

33 14.35%

62 40.26%

2.77 55%

230

2.33

46.6%

154

56 33.33%

32 13.91%

24 10.43%

62 26.96%

43 18.70%

69 30.00% 112 66.67%

3.40 68%

230

3.39

67.7%

168

answered question skipped question

230 23

B. Undertake site plan to upgrade the recreation grounds;

B. i. With site plan, consider: Remove track and reconfigure rugby/soccer pitch

B. ii. With site plan, consider: Remove outfield fencing for Sulphur softball diamond to allow for a combined soccer pitch / softball field

B. iii With site plan, consider: Winter off leash dog park on a ball diamond

B. iv. With site plan, consider: Establish a permanent location for the skate park

B. v. With site plan, consider: Removal or relocation of bike park

B. vi. With site plan, consider: A new multi-use building

Appendix #3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

A. Develop a new playground east of Banff Avenue:

____ On Town-owned corner lot near BCHS (Wolf and Beaver) by removing trees

4.00 3.00 2.00 1.00

____ Through the the aquisition of 1 or 2 residential lots at market cost

49 21.40%

41 17.90%

49.44% 44 19.21%

39 17.03%

79.47%

____ On Town-owned corner lot near BCHS (Wolf and Beaver) by removing trees

A. Develop a new playground east of Banff Avenue:

15 6.55%

O p Re inio sp na on te se d C ou nt

se C Ra ou tin nt g A (O ve pi ra ni on ge s)

Re sp on

Ra tin g A (T O ver T A age L)

229

3.46 69.2%

172

2.96 59%

229

2.95 59.0%

180

2.15 43%

229

1.97 39.5%

190

50.56%

24 10.48%

3.34 67%

65.70%

50 21.83%

107 46.72%

T F 58 25.33%

113

28 12.23%

pi ni on at ed )

5 LY &

N G 4

G RE E A

55 24.02%

A R D

____ Through the the aquisition of 1 or 2 residential lots at market cost 151

5.00

57 24.89%

34.30% 61 26.64%

26 11.35%

33 14.41%

G ST R E RO E N G LY 2 1

IS A D

& 1

To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following recommendations to address Playgrounds use: Use a scale of 1 to 5, where ONE is “DISAGREE Strongly” and FIVE is “AGREE Strongly”

ue st io ns :

2 C om pi b ni na ine d te d)

Playgrounds

20.53%

answered question

229

skipped question

Appendix #3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

72 31.44%

A. Increase winter maintenance

30 16.95%

12 5.24%

18 7.86%

52 22.71%

70 30.57%

and Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre

C. Pave and widen the trail adjacent to Cave Ave

5.00 4.00 3.00 2.00 1.00

24 11.82%

15 6.55%

9 3.93%

26 11.35%

79 34.50%

75 43.10%

44 19.21%

31 13.54%

55 24.02%

42 18.34%

C. Pave and widen the B. Improve pedestrian trail adjacent to Cave and bicycle access to The Fenlands and Ave Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre

A. Increase winter maintenance

A. As part of the Trails Master Plan, classify all trails and apply standards based on their use priority, including surface type

T F

A R D

B. Improve pedestrian and bicycle access to The Fenlands

68 29.69%

O p Re inio sp na on te se d C ou nt

66 28.82%

surface type

Re sp on se C ou Ra nt ti n g A (O ve pi ra ni on ge s)

11 4.80%

(o pi ni on at ed Ra ) ti n g A (T O ver ag T A e L)

LY 4

12 5.24%

G 3

apply standards based on their use priority, including

RE ST E RO N

A G

2 C om (o pi b ni na ined te d) D IS A G ST RE RO E N G LY 2 1

& 1

23 14.11%

A. As part of the Trails Master Plan, classify all trails and

Strongly”

“DISAGREE Strongly” and FIVE is “AGREE

Trail use: Use a scale of 1 to 5, where ONE is

the following recommendations to address

To what extent do you agree or disagree with

Q ue

st io ns :

Trails

140 85.89%

3.76 75.2%

229

4.06 81.2%

163

77 33.62% 147 83.05%

3.79 75.8%

229

4.03 80.6%

177

100 43.67% 179 88.18%

4.05 81.0%

229

4.18 83.6%

203

3.16 63.2%

229

3.21 64.3%

174

57 24.89%

99 56.90%

answered question

229

skipped question

Appendix 3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

Do you have any further comments related to the Recreation Facility Masterplan draft recommendations, or any comments related to the Recreation Facilities in the Town of Banff?

Re sp on se

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be r

ex t

Open Ended Responses

1 No play ground near the high school and please leaven the path on cave ave as is 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

need low cost fitness center with pool and gym in banff so banff go to it and easy to get at it Create separate bike trails from the walking trails as I am tired of nearly being run over by cyclists who have "a need for speed". DO NOT PAVE THE TRAIL ADJACENT TO CAVE AVENUE. THIS IS A WILDERNESS TRAIL. PEOPLE CAN BIKE ON THE ROAD OR WALK ON THE NEW PAVED SIDEWALK WHEN IT COMES. I CAN'T REITERATE THIS ENOUGH!!!! Incredible lack of swimming and gym facilities in Banff. Sally Borden is unusable as a resident, so packed out and cramped. What was the point in a new rec center with no pool and gym?? We reside in a National Park and are lucky that we do. In any expansion, upgrade or new development, the Park and what it needs to best be preserved should be our number one priority. Taking out the fence on sulpher softball diamond would make it almost impossible to still use it as a softball diamond.therefore taking away one of the diamonds that so many locals use. Why not repurpose the bike park that no one uses as a soccer field. making better use of existing facilities such as the schools - better connections with Banff Centre facilities. Roller derby would like a home at the Fenlands! Also, paving the trail on Cave Ave. would be redundant since they are putting in a sidewalk soon. Please don't pave that trail! The Fendlands arena needs an indoor multi use area. Would have liked some specifics & dollar amounts regarding the choices herein. I.e. which area would be considered for the playground? Are you only considering the Wolf & Beaver? What about the empty lot at the end of Beaver near Bison? (site of old duplex) Will ROAM be going to the Centre?

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Any hope for bicycle lanes to get adult cyclists off sidewalks? 12 As a Roller Derby player with the awesome opportunity to use the Fenlands for practice this summer, I feel very strongly about having a good indoor practice facility in the winter months. I understand that Fenlands is busy in winter and wouldn't likely be a viable option however, the Banff High School

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Gym is large enough for a regulation size Flat Derby Track. This sport has had many challenges regarding practice space but my league has had the fortunate circumstance of being able to use the gym at Elizabeth Rummel School in Canmore. This has been wonderful for the league, but we are unable to really compete or scrimmage with local teams in the winter because of lack of space. In indoor space in Banff would create revenue for the town as league members pay dues to cover practice space, as well as promote the fastest growing sport for Women in the World today! In fact Roller Derby may be a new introduction exhibition sport in the 2020 Olympics. I would also like to see a permanent concrete skate park in Banff. I am the mother of a teen skateboarder, and I skateboard myself. My son is passionate about skateboarding as well as variety of other sports such as Golf, Tennis, Snowboarding, Cross Country Skiing, Swimming and Climbing. Skateboarding is his sport that has no commitments, and is all about recreation. Because I have spent a great deal of time in Skateparks all over Western Canada, I am sure that Banff is losing this business. The market is being underestimated. We see and are skatepark tourism. I have many friends that come to Canmore on skatepark vacations with their kids and put a lot of money back in the Valley Economy, but mainly Canmore. We see kids and adults on bikes, scooters, inline skates and roller skates in the parks on a regular basis. I understand that skateboarding has always been viewed as rebellious, but I think this is solely dependant on whether communities embrace it or not. It is only rebellious if it is frowned upon. If Banff had a concrete park for wheel enthusiasts, you would likely please a lot of families and their kids. Thank you for opening this forum and allowing people to contribute their opinions. 13 The Banff Centre will always remain a conference centre first, a community option will be second fiddle to their goals. A public facility needs to accommodate some swim competition and recreational. (This could be a separate investment) Central Park restrooms, are ghetto, no matter how paint and air freshner is in there. Some serious rebuilding is in order. Playground east of high school, this is almost on top of high school play field. Redundant.

14 Would love to see an indoor play area for winter months ope on weekends for families with young children. There is currently little indoor activities to do in winter in Banff. What about an indoor playground where families can go during winter months? motoring munchkins is great but only an hour out of the entire weekend. If Parent Link is receiving more funding or space - why not open Parent Link on weekends in winter months? We really need something to do indoors with 6 and under children in town.

15 Would like washroom at Central Park open earlier in morning (0800h) for us early morning runners. 16 The site plan document is very vague. The bike park and skate park future plans are not stated so your questions are hard to answer. The way the bike park question is stated it is apparent that removal is implied and that it's a forgone conclusion. The maintenance and up-keep of both facilities has been disappointing considering the demographic of our entry level work force. I think that the users rallying within the community fixing both up shows the level of commitment these users have and it's importance. These two sports fall in line with the Site Plan sport trends doc. Creation of a soccer field, rugby field and more team sport facilities doesn't support the guiding statements provided. It will be very sad day if bike park and skate park are reduced or removed again. Please consider this carefully when reviewing your decisions and look to towns like Golden, Crowsnest Pass, Revelstoke , Nelson, Rossland and Canmore so see how they have spent $ on these types of facilities. - Kevin Eaton 17 Please leave the swings in the parks over the winter. Kids in this town still go to the parks in winter! Take them down for the rut and then put them back ... Please! The parent link is in dire need of more space. I'm really pleased to see this in the plan.

I am only opposed to the off leash dog park because many dog owners don't pick up poop. This would leave the entire rec grounds disgusting when the snow melts.

Please don't remove the bike park. Many people use this facility and it took a huge effort to get it up and running initially. Who is in charge of it? It has not been fixed since it was wrecked duri g the floods. Thanks 18 Many towns have Community Centers which we don't seem to have. The Fenlands needs to provide that in a more pro-active way. I think the community would benefit by utilizing this beautiful space for the ideas as presented in the masterplan. Such as dance, gymnastics and ball focused sports, whether is it socceer, rugby space even badminton. Winter space for movement i.e. (yoga, stretching and conditioning) for all ages is important including, seniors or those with limited mobility. We need a social hub to connect with community members. A roam bus shuttle to Fenlands may be something to consider in the future. With plenty of parking for those with vehicles and planning to improve trails to access it only makes sense that we make this a sustainable source of recreation at the Fenlands. It is too bad that a community pool was not also a part of this plan. It would be wonderful to have this added in the future. The Sally Borden is privately owned and operated. I understand we are trying to work in partnership with them. I don't see the need to fund them. The existing pool would require huge modifications to make this pool accessible to all, if this is important to the Banff Centre they should budget this into their operations. A true community pool at the Fenlands would remove obstacles to all users. Thank-you.

19 A splash pad down at the rec grounds would be fantastic for kids (and adults!). It uses recycled water and creates hours of fun for families for low operating costs.

Also, a suggestion would be to remove the stones from the kids play grounds (at the rec grounds) and cover it with the same spongy surface they have at most play grounds in Canmore. It's not very practical for parents to have to wash kids (and their own) clothes every time they use the playgrounds not to mention the stones in the washing machine afterwards! Thanks. 20 A clubhouse facility, with change-rooms & multi-use social space would greatly enhance the use of the recreation grounds.... For Rugby, Soccer, Baseball, etc as well as rental ability for weddings, etc. 21 Many of the recommendations (especially trails) have to do with Parks Canada lands. I don't feel the Town should be trying to tell Parks Canada what to do - we all have to work together as we all manage our impact on the Park. I don't feel, as a tax-payer, that we can afford any additional building(s). We have already invested a number of tax -years worth of capital in the Fenlands Recreation Centre. 22 we need indoor tennis courts and more outdoor tennis courts - this would be supported by tourists, local Banffites and Canmore Residents 23 No.

Appendix 3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

Re sp on se

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Open Ended Responses

24 I would like to see the Fenlands Curling Rink area put to some use during the summer months. One suggestion would be to use it for badminton and pickleball. Court mats could be purchased that can be rolled out for these sports to give a clean look with the right lay out. (Pickleball and badminton use the same court layout). This would turn a huge area of the building into something that is usable when curling is not in season. Both sports probably attract more users than curling ever will in a area like Banff and this could be useful in capturing some sport tourism dollars.

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25 Banff doesn't need a park, playground or facilities on every corner - everything is only five minutes away anyway. Utilize existing buildings and add on rather than duplicating HVAC, footprints, etc. please don't try and make a city out of Banff - it's not one of our city neighbors! We live in a park - go outside and play! Please don't pave everything or add a handrail to everything or sweep every snowflake away - we live in the mountains - four seasons - including winter. The world needs to know we have good snowfall!

26 Put metal strips across cattle guards in and out of both Banff exits and to Lake Miniwanka so bikes can cross safely. K-country has this as do every other jurisdiction EXCEPT Banff 27 It would be so nice if Banff had a swimming pool that was able to be used by all, as the Banff Centre is tough to get to with small children as there is no parking and it is expensive. Also, continue to make Banff Bike friendly with more bike lanes, as many drivers do not respect bikers space. Thank you. 28 I feel it is important for our visitors and local trail users that the river trail from the stables to the Banff springs stables is cleaned often in the summer from all the horse poo. It should be part of the trail use plan to have some agreement with warner's about this - it is so displeasing for joggers, bikers and people walking to navigate through all the horse crap...I understand horses have a place here too in our national park, but warner's could

have a person go behind the horses to clean/sweep up their mess every morning or attach poo bags when they walk them to the stables at the Banff springs. It is a real mess to our trail system and it does not encourage people to use the trail here - which is very unfortunate since this is where our new pedestrian bridge is located. The trails here should be nice for the pedestrians and bikers, but they are not due to all the horse mess. 29 30 31 32

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We need to get out of bed with the Banff centre and should have our own pool. Enhance outdoor opportunities for recreation- bike trails, dog parks, play parks, etc Keep in mind the age of demographics as children age they tend to participate outside of Town for competitive sport/theatre ect., as this is necessary to further their performance. In saying this you need to kept in mind as to who will use these facilities. :) If there is a winter off leash dog park at the ball diamonds no one will pick up their dogs shit, so when the snow melts and people go back to play ball who is going to be the ones to clean this up? I think there should also be a survey about what the town thinks about snow removal durning the winter, it always amazes me that we are a tourist town and we want people to come but the roads are never taken care of properly as the snow piles up and is hardly ever removed, cougar street is horrible. The only street that is ever cleaned is Banff ave. you may want to invest in snow removal before you start thinking about this as it snows most of the year. And with the dog park, I can't see you making people that work for the town clean up dog shit in the park.

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Additional foot bridge linking Central Park and rec grounds. Swimming pool at Fendlands Recreation Centre. In Central park more for the kids park than the art displays. We have enough art displays around town. If people just want to sit and have a peaceful lunch with their kids than a park would benefit this. Work with Parks to establish better cross country skiing trails. A day/night use of tunnel mtn campground trails for winter skiing would be of great use to the recreational skier. Soccer field inprovements. Canmore has over 500 kids in their soccer program......Banff has 40 kids???

37 Developing a good trail system within and around Banff would get a lot of use. As the population ages, walking will be become even more of a popular activity, and one that is a peaceful way to enjoy the Banff scenery. 38 In this day and age, recreation, physical activity and sport are essential, if not critical. Banff should strive to become the most active (and physically literate) town in the country. Richard Monette 39 THE TOWN OF BANFF, NEEDS TO HAVE ITS OWN SWIMMING POOL, AND SHOULD NOT INVEST INTO THE BANFF CENTRE POOL UPGADE, NOT ALL PEOPLE LIKE GOING TO THE REC FACILITIES AT THE BANFF CENTRE. THE NEW REC CENTRE IS MISSING A SWIMMING POOL,

40 Stop just trying to spend money. Ooh shiny! governance is not good gevernance. 41 **6 - 7 months a year, bicycles are the primary form of both recreation and transportation. Although expensive, apply resources into a master trail plan showing primary bicycle trails - not just drawings on a map and markings on roads. **Cross Country Skiing on Tunnel Mountain is a worthwhile project for the municipality to engage in (with volunteers) ** move the bike park and build a "kids" park that is designed for beginners and young kids.

** Parks Canada has totally dropped the ball on connecting local trails (Sulphur Mtd, Tunnel Mountain) to the Town. Commence a trail project at ties in these trail to the town, even if it means spending money outside of the Town. Have 1 or 2 Central Trail head for all trails that exists in the Town and has wayfinding taking users to the existing trail head (ie teh trail head to Spray loop and Sulphur Mtn and and Sundance all exist at the South end of the new pedestrian bridge. ** Do not build an expensive pool and multi-use facility - that is a red elephant. Spend resources on trails and building upon the benefits we already enjoy (trails, view points, etc) Trails are cheap compared to buildings. 42 Why did we build all that ice space. It does not directly serve the resident and comes at a great cost to residents. I know you can earn revenue from the Fenlands, but is that the point of the Fenlands itself. Anyway, I guess we have it now, and I get very little use from it. Useful times are limited because rentals take priority.

More trails: I love the trail system through town. The new ped bridge is sweet. That was a nice move and in the right place. We now need better signage diverting people to that bridge. Upgrade the Sally B.: If the town is going call that the town pool then it should come to the table with some upgrades in play features.

Outdoor rink: Nice idea, but should really consider what it costs vs locals that would use the Fenlands if ice time was available. I really wonder how may visitors use the ice space. Mountain bike park & Skate Park: Man, look at Canmore and then visit Banff. They are so far ahead of us in all areas of recreation and this is certainly a huge one. I suppose these facilities are under utilized, but they do have potential to "save" a certain demographic of kids as they pass through the teen years. I say it's money well spent.

Central Park - Spray Park - you know this would be sweet, but unfortunately for only two months a year....

Anyway, good times. I love living here. 43 Sorry, not sure what exists at 101 address early in this survey. Perhaps a verbal description of what currently exists there would help understand what is at stake.

Also seemed odd question in # 3. Seems to assume I want to upgrade the recreation grounds and the only thing at issue is whether I want to do it with or without a site plan. 44 As a regular user of the new dog park, I have experienced the tremendous benefit to our community. It is the new social meeting place in Banff. It affords the opportunity to develop new relationships with citizens that we may never meet otherwise. I would love to see another dog park developed 45 46 47 48

closer to the town center, more accessible by foot...and paw. No As avid tennisplayers and the popularity of tennis we would like to see more tenniscourts. A indoor facility would be the ultimate dream. A paved trail along side the road going up to the gondola that is maintained year round to improve safety and accessibility on one of banff's busiest roads. Make rec grounds work for more users, ball diamonds sit empty most of the time. Make a super duper amazing kids structure at central park.

Appendix 3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

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Don't raise my taxes. Repurpose existing funds and no user fees as that is a barrier to access build a pool at Fenlands I would like to see the use of the empty concrete pad on Banff Ave (by Rose and Crown) to be turned into a functional space for locals. The space as it is, is under-utilized by the community. I find it crazy that the fenlands centre was developed without considering summer use potential. I don't understand why the town of banff doesn't have summer drop in shinny similar to what they run in the winter. I know a lot if people who would use it. Right now dozens of banffites make the commute to canmore to play during the summer. Please do not allow horses on the multi use trails The town can not afford to loose any residential space. Funds would be better spent providing affordalbel housing for long term residents. Is it possible to keep swings in the winter by fencing or something? I believe that outside recreation should have a priority in Banff. Inside recreation should be available for the residents. I would like to see the majority of Community classes offered at the schools or the Seniors Centre where access is easier without a car. Put a pedestrian bridge from Central Park to Rec Grounds making a nice loop with the other bridge

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Put a weight room for the community in back at the high school or the Fenlands

Put lights on the skatepark for nite time use 59 Long term objectives off getting rid of a parking lot downtown need to be set - to be replaced by a park/ public space. Higher density, paid parking in other areas. Free parking at train station with park n ride bus faciliting. Longer term visioning needed. Dedicated bike lanes needed.

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Running circuit with outdoor gym equipment at different locations on it needed. 62 63 64 65 66 67

Natural Playground space would be awesome Very positive for permanent home for skate park, very much against removing trees for playground. They should be a small waterpark for kids so kids (Specialy small kids could play in summer in the water and winter maybe a small sliding for small kids. would both is fenced in. Very Big yes for Capital Contributions to Sally B. The Elk Love using the ball diamonds in the winter. and Just improve the current spot for the skate park. and an ice rink/hockey rink in the winter - flood the diamonds Strongly Agree - to the RELOCATION of the bike park. The curling seasons should not be shortened. The town should promote curling thru high school programs and increase the curling season. Ball parks should not be reconfigured, they should stay as they are.

Thanks 68 The state of the Rec grounds is a joke year after year. I play Rugby and Soccet on the pitch and represent the town for both sports, I think the effort put into the field is laughable. You talk about green space and how parks wont allow anymore foot prints yet the Banff Springs hotel is allowed to park cars on what used to be one of the nicest playing fields in town!? How about refurbish the field that is ready there for Soccer and get the vehicles off it. Keep the rugby pitch down at the grounds, stop doing surveys on ridiculous notions of buying houses at market costs to build a playground. And spend some mich needed money on insuring your playing fields stop injuring atheletes, flooding at the dryest times of year and all in all just are plain horrible. 69 70 71 72

Better promote Curling Facilities, hire full time person to run this area so it is booked to its full potential. Seems to be run as someones little kingdom!! Not sure about the playgrounds, would love to see one in central park, I have lived in Banff for ten years and have never seen any kids on the playground by the keg on Banff avenue, maybe get rid of it! Would the Town re-instate an indoor soccer class for kids to use the improved indoor soccer facility? In regards to a dog park: I lived in RMC#2 for 3 years and each winter after any significant temperature drop the elk would congregate in the baseball/soccer/greenhouse area within 48 hrs, without fail. The number of elk could be anywhere from 5-20 to 30-120 depending on how cold it was. I do not think a dog park would help this situation and that natural wildlife should have priority.

In regards to paving Cave Ave: the priority should be in connecting the Cave Ave path to the Sundance path. Currently as soon as you approach the parking lot the path switches from something rideable/walkable to a horse trail, right where there is a 10m gain! I'd prefer if the path wasn't paved/widened, HOWEVER, if you were to take the West sidewalk on the Bow River Bridge and dedicate it to cyclists (assuming you're going to add a car lane anyways once you open the ped bridge) then it would make sense to pave Cave Ave trail as you'd have a comprehensive paved trail from Canmore all the way to Sundance Canyon! Most importantly, I think the natural separate between Cave Ave and the path next to it should be maintained.

Regarding subsidizing the Sally B pool: I think this is a great idea, and that locals (with appropriate ID) should get a preferred rate for drop in use of the pool, currently it's $10. $5 would be much more reasonable. Regarding the bike park in the woods: This is one of the only outdoor places in Banff that offers natural shade (besides Rotary Park). I think it is IMPERATIVE that it be maintained. Yes, it is subject to springtime flooding, but no more than the river trails are. It's a great shady location for small kids to play and stay within eyesight next to the playground/picnic area. It's current state is quite usable considering there has been zero maintenance. The only downside of this area is the mosquitos come end of June. But seriously, don't underestimate the value of the shade offered by this activity and location Please don't move it! 73 leave the ball diamonds alone! 74 -Do not compromise the integrity of the baseball fields in any way please!!!! The seasons are shortened currently from construction and rain and animal droppings,.... Also, I don't understand the need for a season specific dog park (?) -I'm ok with moving the bike park but not doing away with it; you seemed to bunch those two options into one question :(

-Educate people that they cannot have all improvements granted; funding in some areas will mean little or no funding in others (I'm assuming, unless there's some dramatic increase in taxes [?]) -One last rant, the walking bridge built downstream from the Banff Ave. bridge should have been built upstream connecting Central park with the rec grounds!!!!! It would have integrated the capacity of this beautiful greenspace, lessened the pedestrian load on the main bridge, prolonged any need to improve the Cave Ave walkway,...... Thanks! 75 We live in a condo building on Muskets street where there are 8-10 toddlers just in our building. The closet play structures are quite a walk especially in winter. This is a high density neighborhood with many young families and we would love to see a park close by. Thank you for noticing this need. 76 I have raised two children in Banff and I think there are enough playgrounds. I don't think that a dog park on the ballfield is a good idea. Accumulation of dog waste will not be good for grass. As a dog owner, I feel that we've gone for all this time without an off leash area, now we've got one, do we really need another one already? 77 More greenhouses

Appendix 3: Survey Results of Draft Recommendations

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78 Bike lanes should be considered on roads, and at least new paving of skatepark to keep riders safe 79 Dog parks are greatly needed in banff, especially in high times when walking can be difficult on the busy streets. Specific areas for skateboarding would be nice to get them off the streets. Encouraging and facilitating bike use would be nice to alleviate traffic backups in town. Safety courses for proper bike

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hand signals and etiquette would also be good. Ie not on sidewalks, stop at red lights, etc.

80 The Fenlands is a great facility and I believe has yet to meet its full potential. 81 I really like the idea of reconfiguring the recreation grounds with a site plan that included a building to support indoor sports (i.e. indoor soccer/basketball, dance/karate/yoga, work out room/running track). While I use the Sally Borden on a regular basis the gym is very busy and there is no parking. Perhaps the site plan would also consider another pedestrian bridge to the new reconfigured rec grounds with a multi use building? Just saying...

82 Consider indoor tennis courts as part of multi use facility. 83 On the mulit-use trails in and around the Rec grounds and towards Bow Falls something needs to be done about the horse feces. Either create a horse only trail (like en route to cave & basin) or all horses must stay on road btw banff springs and barns. It is disgusting, it does not encourgae people to use the paths, it smells horrible and looks horrible. The cleaning that is currently done is not enough!!!!

Also the winter off leash park is a fantastic use of underuntilized space at the rec grounds. All that space is use 3 days a week 4 months a year, we can do so much more with it! 84 -Winter dog park in baseball diamond will likely require 'srping cleaning' to clean up leftover dog droppings - what would the cost of this be?

-Although major changes to Central Park should not be made, adding covered bike racks would be useful for people looking to bike downtown for a few hours and who don't want to worry about it raining - would also make sense at Rec Grounds;

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-Fenlands definitely seems underutilized, easier access for bikes and pedestrians, and conversion for multi-use activities would be very helpful; -Although Cave Ave trail could be paved, it should not need to be widened.

-Not sure of the reason for a field house at Rec Grounds - past experience with such structures is that they are usually locked, dirty, and not well utilized. Why spend the money? 85 Thanks for the new dog park, unfortunately it is not accessible by foot easily unless we want to break the law and cross the train tracks behind marmot. So the towns people must either break the law (or walk past it to compound rd with no sidewalks) or our other option is to kill the environment and drive there every time. Please address this by either building an overpass to the tracks (compound workers would surely appreciate this) or build a dog park on the rec grounds that residents can walk to impact free. Thanks.

86 Only allow skateboarding at the skateboard park wherein belongs. You don't allow golf or baseball at totlots or highschoolfield. There is a right and wrong place for each activity. Keep skateboarding in its rightful place,! I would prefer to sees pool aquatic centre at the fenlands rather than the Sally borden

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