By Spencer Hall, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, RMG
Village of Valemount staff are recommending that Council explore the undeveloped portion of John Osadchuk Park as the location for the proposed pump track.
In August, a delegation from the Valemount & Area Recreation Development Association (VARDA) Project Pump It Up Committee made a presentation to Council to explore the development of a pump track on Village property.
Krista Etty, Land Use Planner with the Village, said staff have since met with members of the VARDA committee to discuss project needs and possible locations, adding previous input from residents have also highlighted the need for a dog park in Valemount.
Etty said the undeveloped portion of John Osadchuk Park is an ideal spot for the pump track and dog park because of its central location, washroom facilities, and size — roughly 3.87 acres. The facility also has space for a concession if the park is used for events, according to Etty’s report.
According to Etty, there is no requirement to change the zoning of the land because it is currently being utilized as a ballpark and is already designated for parks and recreation.
“This also makes use of current undeveloped park land within the Village without having to allocate additional land,” Etty said.
She said staff have been researching dog parks to learn size and amenity needs and what policy and bylaw updates would be required. She said one acre would likely be large enough for the community.
Staff proposed allocating three acres to the pump track and the remainder to the dog park.
In the meantime, staff must clarify the remaining space available for development on the land, ensure the remaining space will be large enough for both uses, find out the costs associated with creating the dog park, and determine a solution to stop balls from going over the fence at the ball diamonds.
Mulyk said the portion of land isn’t very big, adding it will be “interesting” to see if staff can incorporate everything into the property.
Etty said staff have contacted Urban Systems for a preliminary design to ensure the property has enough space for both uses. Staff will share the design with council once it’s received.
