By Adam Ophus

funding approved

Improvements coming for North Saskatchewan river Park

Apr 26, 2019 | 4:33 PM

At their regular meeting on Tuesday, Clearwater County council received updated information regarding the Town of Rocky Mountain House’s plans for improvements to the North Saskatchewan River Park.

County council then approved $200,000 towards covered bleachers, power, non-potable water system, portable bleachers, fencing, and infield box upgrades.

“I think it’s been a long outstanding issue for the grounds to have those covered bleachers,” explained Roger Smolnicky, Director Recreation, Town of Rocky Mountain House.

“We worked extensively with the rodeo association and the chuckwagon association and both councils (Town and County) to make this happen. Through that cooperation we’re able to not only fund that but also apply for grants to assist us in other amenities to make it more attractive down there.”

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Smolnicky is hoping to get work started this year.

“I’m tempted to at least get most of them started, this is all construction so it’s weather depending of course. Our intent is to try and get most of this in place, some of it might have to occur this fall.”

North Saskatchewan River Park was initially developed in the late 1990s with three phases planned.

The first phase included an investment of $1.7 million towards the relocation of the rodeo grounds, bleachers, and a BMX track that was not built.

The second phase was for sport fields (soccer and baseball). This phase was later cancelled as it would have interfered with special events hosted at the park.

Also, it was recommended within the Recreation Master plan that the new ball fields and soccer fields be built when a new school site is being considered.

Phase three was to include the development of a full-service campground. This was not pursued as the Town does not own the land it was to be situated on, and with the approved Recreation Master Plan this will not be pursued.