A major step forward for the Rocky Bike Park Society as they received some exciting news: a $684,000 grant from Active Communities Alberta. The funding is expected to be sufficient to complete the entire vision for the bike park that has been in the works for years.
The society’s president, Rachel McAdam, expressed her excitement and relief after months of anticipation. “We’ve been holding onto this news for a while, so it’s great to finally share it,” McAdam said.
This significant funding boost brings the society closer to its ultimate goal of building all phases of a bike park that will not only serve as a local recreational hub but also attract tourists to the area.
Previously, around $1.1 million was raised through local fundraising efforts, while McAdam says the grant now tops the organization up to its overall goal of raising $1.7 million.
McAdam is confident the park will be completed on schedule. Construction is set to begin this July, with the hope that the full park, including all four tracks, will be ready by the fall.
The Active Communities Alberta initiative, introduced only recently, is designed to support local projects aimed at enhancing community health and well-being. The Rocky Bike Park Society’s application, which McAdam admits was challenging to prepare, required extensive work, from gathering financial records to presenting the community’s support for the project. The society was assisted by local experts who helped navigate the complex process, including provisions for the effect of inflation on the project.
“The application process was tough,” McAdam shared, recalling the hours spent in preparation. “But we’re so grateful for the support we received, and for the guidance from those who helped us make it happen.”
The park will feature a variety of tracks suited to all kinds of riders—from toddlers on strider bikes to experienced cyclists. It’s expected to attract visitors from around the province, and the location, next to West Central High School, makes it a prime spot for local students to enjoy during breaks or after school. “We’re really excited about its proximity to the school,” McAdam explained. “It’s going to be such a great spot for kids to hang out, ride, and maybe even have outdoor classes when the weather’s nice.”
McAdam says the site sits on empty land that was once home to a dog park and a Canadian Natural Resources (CNRL) wellhead, which has now been reclaimed to prepare for construction.
Map of the proposed Rocky Mountain House Bike Park (Velosolutions/Rocky Mountain Bike Park Society)
In addition to the bike tracks, the park will include picnic tables, benches, bleachers, and other amenities to create a welcoming space for the entire community. With its central location, close to the highway and the town walking path, McAdam says it’s set to be an easily accessible destination for families, tourists, and cyclists of all kinds.
McAdam also hinted at an exciting grand opening event, planned tentatively for spring of 2026. She hopes to invite professional riders to perform demonstrations and host a community celebration with food trucks, local vendors, and live music. “We really want this to be a special event for everyone who’s supported this project,” she said.
McAdam says the grant announcement is not just a victory for the Rocky Bike Park Society, but a testament to the power of community and collaboration. McAdam hopes the success of their efforts will inspire others to take on ambitious projects that can transform their communities.
“It’s a huge accomplishment for our society and everyone who’s given their time for this,” McAdam reflected. “I hope that this can be an inspiration for other people to move forward with their good ideas and help the community out.”
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