Banff Springs Hotel closes to help 'halt the spread of COVID-19'

An iconic hotel in the Rocky Mountains has ceased operations temporarily as COVID-19 continues to decimate Alberta's tourism.

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel has closed as of noon Friday, a raremove for the 132-year-old business.

Over the years, the hotel has shutteredfor renovations and during wartime, and was a seasonal operation prior to the late 1960s.

"This certainly isn't goodbye, it's farewell for now," hotel management said in a message posted to its website.

Doors at the hotel were closedto support local authorities in their work "to halt the spread of COVID-19," the message said.

"We currently live in a world that is changing rapidly by the day and by the hour," it said.

"As we navigate through these times of change and uncertainty, we do so with the safety of both our loyal and valued guests and employees as our highest priority."

Banff in particular has been hit hard during this pandemic. Unemployment has hit up to85 per cent in the town, according to the local MLA, as the community'seconomy depends on now non-existent tourism.

The Banff Springs Hotel itself draws thousands of sightseers each year. But in recent weeks, the area around the hotel has been quiet.

'Challenging' path forward

Leslie Bruce, president andCEO ofBanff and Lake Louise Tourism, said the town is facinghard times but many people arestarting to look at what comes next.

"That path forward, it's going to be challenging," Bruce said.

"With so many people who have left, with so many businesses that have shut their doors in order to weather this period of time this unknown period of time, it's going to take a very large effort to restart the industry."

Officials in the community have asked non-residents to stay away from the townsite to avoid further spread of the deadly coronavirus. As of Friday, officials have begun stopping cars to urge drivers to turn around.

Parks Canada has also restricted access to parking and facilities in national parks.

Jasper Park Lodge alsoclosedtemporarily as of noon Friday.