Yellowknife’s city council is set to formally rename Franklin Avenue to Wiı̀liı̀deh Avenue, a change that would take effect on National Indigenous Peoples Day.
Council already discussed the plan earlier this year and expressed broad support.
City staff have now come back with a draft bylaw that would carry out the change with an effective date of June 21, 2026.
Council is expected to pass the bylaw this month, clearing the way for British naval officer Sir John Franklin’s name to be removed from 50 Avenue, Yellowknife’s main street.
The bylaw is up for discussion by a council committee on Wednesday, May 13 ahead of being brought to future council meetings for a series of formal votes.
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The Yellowknives Dene First Nation previously suggested that Franklin Avenue be renamed to Chief Drygeese Avenue, after Yellowknives Dene Chief Emil Drygeese, also known as Old Man Drygeese or Imeh, who signed Treaty 8 in Fort Resolution in 1900.
First Nation councillors, however, passed a resolution in September 2025 requesting that the street’s name be changed to Wiı̀liı̀deh Avenue.
Wiı̀liı̀deh Yatı is the traditional language spoken by the Yellowknives Dene.
Briefing documents for city councillors suggest that City Hall expects to spend just over $40,000 changing all of the street signs. Various other pieces of software and old bylaws will need an update, too.
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According to the city, Canada Post believes 19 postal addresses that use Franklin Avenue will need to change their address. (There are 360 that use 50 Avenue. Those ones are fine, as Wiı̀liı̀deh Avenue would still be 50 Avenue.)
“Businesses will be required to change stationery, mailing addresses for deliveries, banking etc., whereas individuals will be required to change Drivers’ licences, mailing addresses with banks, utility companies etc,” the city’s briefing note states.
“Administration will support affected residents and businesses through early and direct outreach, including the provision of clear information on timelines, required updates, and available supports.
“Coordination with external agencies, including Canada Post, the Government of the Northwest Territories, and emergency services, will be undertaken to support a smooth transition.”
This would not be the first time a street name has changed in Yellowknife.
In 2010, the city renamed a portion of 50 Street to Angel Street as part of an initiative addressing family violence.
