Banff makeover ends on high note

Banff is throwing an outdoor concert to celebrate the end of a year and a half of construction on the Alberta resort town's main street.

Canadian acts Theory of a Deadman, k-os, Joel Plaskett Emergency and Ron Sexsmith will headline an all-day concert on Aug. 21 on Banff Avenue, the town announced Tuesday.

Two blocks of Banff Avenue, the town's main drag, had been blocked with barricades and road equipment since 2007, while the town undertook a $22-million project to replace underground infrastructure, widen sidewalks, improve lighting and add crosswalks and loading zones.

"We want to celebrate the refreshing of Canada's town in a big way, so we're bringing in four of Canada's top bands from coast to coast, and hosting a free party for anyone who wants to come out and celebrate with us," said Banff Mayor John Stutz.

He's expecting 30,000 people to take in the concert and street party, dubbed Banff Live, which will run 1 to 9 p.m. on Aug. 21.