The future of the Banff pedestrian zone, implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, will be determined by a public vote on August 12th. Despite its popularity among visitors, concerns raised by residents about traffic displacement, evacuation route accessibility, and business equity have sparked a petition opposing its permanence. Additionally, Parks Canada has expressed concerns about commercial development on public lands. The pedestrian zone will continue to operate until the Thanksgiving long weekend or shortly after the vote if the majority votes against it.