Canmore is set to begin construction on a new downtown public washroom at 907 7th Avenue on August 17, 2026. The project, approved by Town Council on June 30, 2026, will replace the existing 1989 facility with a larger building featuring approximately 10 universal access stalls, including accessible and family-friendly options.
Town staff describe the current washroom as “by far the most intensively used public washrooms within the downtown area,” serving residents, visitors, downtown businesses, and ROAM Transit drivers and riders. Lineups are common during peak visitation and major events such as the Canmore Folk Music Festival. The new facility is expected to be complete by the end of October 2026.
The budget for the project has risen from an initial $700,000 to $1.46 million due to higher construction costs and site servicing needs. The additional $760,000 will come from the Town’s asset replacement and rehabilitation reserve, including $200,000 that was already designated. The project also includes $250,000 from the Local Government Fiscal Framework and $250,000 from Municipal Sustainability Initiative funding.
Mayor Sean Krausert acknowledged the cost increase, saying there is “sticker shock” when a project doubles in price, but delaying would likely cost even more. Councillor Jen Marran raised concerns about having no washrooms in the area during busy August and September, suggesting temporary portable toilets or extended Civic Centre hours as alternatives.
Councillor Wade Graham supported the need for better facilities but opposed the cost, saying he “cannot in good conscience spend $140,000 per stall for a washroom.” The Town of Canmore advises residents and visitors to expect construction activity in the downtown area while work is underway.
