Cross-country ski trail changes in Red Deer might see improvements over and above what was planned for the 2019 Canada Winter Games.
At Monday’s upcoming regular meeting, city council will look at amending Nordic trail improvements approved in 2014, provided provincial dollars are available.
The project originally involved a $729,000 plan to enhance and upgrade the trails at River Bend Golf and Recreation Area to meet technical requirements to host biathlon and cross-country skiing during the Games.
That involved widening 5.5 kilometers of the existing 14.5 kilometers of trails, developing a stadium area and renovating the biathlon range.
Parkland Ski Club has identified additional trail enhancements beyond the scope of the Games project that include:
- Widening portions of additional trails to meet modern sporting requirements, including skate skiing and multi-use traffic (skiing, biking, walking and snowshoeing).
- Creating new trail connections to reduce the need for skiers to cross the River Bend roadway.
- Brushing and base work on existing trails to improve snow accumulation and drainage.
- Improving sightlines for enhanced safety on portions of downhill trails.
- Installing trail lighting to extend trail use and accessibility in the morning and evenings.
The ski club has applied to receive provincial grant funding to cover the construction cost of the additional upgrades. Council will consider amending the 2014 River Bend Trail Development Canada Winter Games Project, subject to the club receiving grant funding.
For more information, and to see the proposed changes, visit http://www.reddeer.ca/recreation-and-culture/parks-and-trails/cross-country-ski-trails/