A new outdoor fitness space near St. Matthew’s in Rocky Mountain House is getting a boost thanks to a $27,000 grant from the Co-op Community Spaces program.
The funding, announced Monday by Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL), is part of a $1-million commitment to 14 community projects across Western Canada in 2025. In Rocky, an “Outdoor Recreation Hub” is among the projects.
The application for the grant was submitted by Friends of St. Matthew School Society, which plans to install six pieces of barrier-free fitness equipment on the school grounds — a space that will be open not only for students, but the entire community to use.
“We’re installing six barrier-free equipment pieces that will enhance physical fitness opportunities for our 500-plus student population, and also benefit the community,” said Donna Noble, a member of the society. “Everybody in the community can use it.”
In addition to the Co-op funding, the group also received $25,000 through the federal New Horizons for Seniors Program, with support from the Good Samaritan Society.
Construction on the fitness hub is scheduled to begin in early July, with equipment installation and rubber surfacing expected to be completed by mid-month. A small disc golf area will also be installed with baskets funded by the school’s parent council, student council, and Rocky Credit Union.
The work follows completion of a nearby track, which was a community-collaboration project finished in 2024.
Track near St. Matthew Catholic School in Rocky Mountain House. (Friends of St. Matthew Society/Donna Noble)
Since launching in 2015, the Co-op Community Spaces program has invested $14.5 million in more than 200 projects across Western Canada, supporting recreation, environmental conservation and urban agriculture.
“Congratulations to this year’s Community Spaces recipients, their local Co-ops, and all those who will play a role in bringing these meaningful projects to life,” said Heather Ryan, FCL, CEO. “Our Community Spaces program is more than just an investment in infrastructure – it’s a commitment to the people and places that help build sustainable communities together. We’re proud to support these initiatives and witness the lasting impacts they will have in their communities for years to come.”
You can find out more about the initiative here.
Other projects include:
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Co-op Community Gazebo — Mackenzie, B.C.
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Towne Theatre Accessibility Upgrades — Vernon, B.C.
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Co-op Community Market Square — Two Hills, Alta.
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Co-op Community Hall — Valleyview, Alta.
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Dressing Room & Announcer Booth Project — Pincher Creek, Alta.
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Co-op Community Agricultural Hub — North Battleford, Sask.
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Co-op Community Eco Kids Outdoor Learning Centre — Wynyard, Sask.
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Coteau Hills Elementary & Our Lady of Hope Catholic School Playground — Moose Jaw, Sask.
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Outlook Elementary School Accessible Playground — Outlook, Sask.
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Co-op Community Walking & Healing Path — Okanese First Nation, Sask.
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Co-op Community Playground — La Salle, Man.
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RM of Springfield Co-op Community Pool — Dugald, Man.
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Co-op Community Playground — Kenton, Man.
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