The Edmonton Mountain Bike Alliance (EMBA) is one step closer to creating the city’s first-ever mountain bike park, thanks to a recent grant from the provincial government.
Located in Queen Elizabeth Park, just east of the Walterdale Bridge, the new park will be set in the park’s wooded area.
“This is a huge moment for the mountain biking community in Edmonton,” said Matt Edwards, a representative from EMBA. “The bike park will give riders of all ages and skill levels a dedicated space, encouraging recreation, skill development, and a stronger cycling culture in our city.”
With the help of a provincial grant, the alliance has successfully raised over $600,000, reaching its fundraising goal. Last year, the City of Edmonton also contributed $407,000 through a separate grant.
The park’s total estimated cost is $1.2 million, with additional funding coming from private sponsorships and donations.
The new funding will allow the alliance to start construction once the required development permits are approved.
After five years of planning and advocacy for a mountain biking space in the river valley, the project is finally moving forward.
The park will feature four key areas: a flow zone, an asphalt pump track, a skills area, and a dirt jump zone.
“We are grateful to our volunteers, community supporters, and all levels of government for making this project possible,” Edwards said. “This is just the beginning of what we can achieve for the future of mountain biking in Edmonton.”
The Edmonton Mountain Bike Alliance expects to begin construction soon, with the goal of completing the park by next year.