North-end residents in Rocky Mountain House will soon see crews begin tree removal and pathway upgrades along the Muskeg Avenue trail.

Town council approved $80,000 for the project in its 2026 budget. The trail runs east-west near 67 Avenue, between 60 Street and Highway 11.

Most of the work will focus on removing aging poplar trees planted in the mid-1990s that have reached the end of their lifespan.

Officials say falling branches have created safety hazards and added maintenance work for parks and recreation staff. The trees’ roots have also caused damage to the pathway.

Tree removal is scheduled for the spring, with spot repairs to the trail planned through the summer and fall. While the poplars will be removed, spruce, tamarack and memorial trees will remain, with officials noting the changes will allow those trees to mature more effectively.

Laura Button, communications coordinator for the town, said the work will change the look of the trail, particularly for longtime residents and frequent trail users.

“We do know that this will change the experience on that stretch of trail,” she said. “We just hope people can see the benefit of it in the long run.”

Tree removal is expected to begin in early May, with nearby residents to receive 48 hours’ notice before work starts.

The trail will be closed while work is underway.