The pump track has now been open for four seasons, and as we wrap up this summer, we thought it would be a good time to share some news on how things are going at one our community’s favourite hang out spots!
Did you find the pump track to be a little too busy for your taste back in 2020 or 2021? After a crazy first couple of seasons, the crowds have definitely lessened. Now that the COVID lockdown is behind us, and a few other pump tracks have opened around town, you can return to a much quieter track. This is especially true if you have young children on strider bikes and you had concerns about them colliding with faster/older riders. In addition, the construction of six parking spots has made for a more organized, easy, and safe way to access the track (and dog park) if you live a little farther away and need to drive.
The track has handled our extreme weather quite well over the last four seasons, but the grass is showing some wear. The “islands” of mulch on the inside of the track are going to require replacement very soon. The community association is in talks with the City on replacing the mulch with grass or astroturf. Stay tuned for volunteer opportunities in 2024 when this project begins to take shape!
Although the pump track was built by the community association, ownership now rests with the City. However, we are still the track’s primary stewards. Please help keep the park in good condition by reporting any graffiti or damage to 311 right away.
There have been a few instances over the last few years of people riding dirt bikes on the track. This is obviously illegal, very dangerous, disruptive, and definitely not what the track was designed for. This includes electric dirt bikes without pedals – yes, even kids’ ones. If you see such behaviour, please report it to the police right away.
As the weather gets colder, please know that the track does not receive any winter maintenance. Ride with caution, avoid using it when it’s covered in ice or snow, and please refrain from getting creative with snow removal equipment. Over the years we have seen people using blow torches, ice melt compound, snow blowers, pickaxes, and other creative but incredibly damaging tools in an effort to remove snow and ice. A plastic snow shovel and some sunshine are usually the best way to get the track back into riding shape without destroying the asphalt.
Lastly, a tip of the helmet to the local kids who have progressed massively with their riding since 2020 when the track opened! Many of our Fairview kids and teens started out small but can now put together impressive runs with massive airtime that wouldn’t look out of place at Crankworx in Whistler. If you want to see what I’m talking about, go for an evening walk on a school night and check it out for yourself. Well done guys and girls!
Sam Koots
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