October 22, 2021 – Parks Foundation Calgary, in partnership with the Calgary Flames Foundation, City of Calgary and Government of Alberta, celebrate an exciting milestone today preparing for the opening of another world class pump track in the Inglewood community. The track officially opens to the public beginning Saturday, October 23.
Like the South Glenmore Bicycle Pump Track which opened in August 2020, this new amenity is an asphalt circuit that uses hand-designed hills to create an ‘up and down’ pumping motion rather than pedaling. As they navigate the track, users learn the basic skills of carrying momentum, balance and speed by using their arms and legs to pump their bike.
“We are overjoyed to see this pump track open. Calgary cyclists now have another great amenity to help them improve their skills and confidence,” said Sheila Taylor, CEO of Parks Foundation Calgary. “Inglewood features a vast network of cycling paths, making this pump track easily accessible for all users at all ability levels.”
“Supporting access to sport and recreation opportunities is a priority for the Calgary Flames Foundation and we are thrilled to be able to work with Parks Foundation Calgary on a project that will bring a new and exciting recreational opportunity to people of all ages,” says Candice Goudie, Executive Director, Calgary Flames Foundation. “
“The Municipal Stimulus Program was designed to help municipalities build infrastructure and create sustainable jobs, and I am pleased to see this being achieved. Projects like the Inglewood Pump Track not only provide long-term benefits to a community, but also support our goal of getting Albertans back to work to ensure Alberta is the best place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Ric McIver, Minister of Municipal Affairs.
“Bike pump tracks are increasingly popular, especially as Calgarians seek more active, family-friendly outdoor amenities to support health and wellness,” said Kyle Ripley, Director of Calgary Parks. “The track will offer cyclists on the scenic river pathway network a fun stop within the Inglewood neighbourhood.”
The track is a collaboration project between Parks Foundation, the Calgary Flames Foundation, the Government of Alberta and the City of Calgary. According to stats gathered by the City of Calgary, the South Glenmore pump track averages 176 users per day during summer months.
The park was designed by local landscape architects ground cubed and Velosolutions, a Montreal-based company. Their exclusive asphalt technique has gained critical acclaim, and Velosolutions’ unique design allows users to advance their skills without the need to alter the track. For example, a feature that a 5-year-old can gently roll through could be used as a gap jump for a professional cyclist.
Access to the Inglewood Bicycle Pump Track is free, and it has been designed for use by bicycles. Visitors are requested to please follow all current provincial health orders including two metres physical distancing between households. Riders should wear helmets when they are on the track.
For more information about ongoing Parks Foundation Calgary projects, visit www.parksfdn.com.