The Fort Kent Recreation Park is set for a new look this summer — but winter skating isn’t going anywhere.
Council has approved a plan to convert the existing outdoor rink surface into a bike pump track for summer use, while keeping the boards in place so the space can return to leisure ice during the winter months.
The decision followed a public survey to gauge community interest.
According to administration, 35 responses were received. Of those, 57 per cent supported replacing the rink surface with a pump track while maintaining winter ice, 37 per cent wanted to keep the rink as-is and six per cent preferred removing it entirely.
Council ultimately backed the hybrid model.
One councillor said the project strikes a balance between modern recreation needs and preserving traditional winter use, noting the survey showed a clear preference for adapting the space rather than removing it.
What Is a Pump Track?
For those unfamiliar with the concept, a pump track is a looping track made up of rolling mounds, berms and small hills designed for bikes, scooters and skateboards.
Instead of pedalling constantly, riders “pump” their bodies up and down over the terrain to maintain momentum.
The tracks are designed to be accessible for beginners while still offering a challenge for more experienced riders. They’ve grown in popularity in smaller communities because they are relatively low maintenance once built and encourage active outdoor play for youth and families.
Council discussion reflected the idea that the feature could provide a fresh draw for younger residents during the summer months while still allowing winter recreation to continue.
Cost and Funding
The project carries a budget of $158,000 and will be funded through the Town’s Parks and Recreation Infrastructure Reserve.
Over the summer, rink boards will be repaired and maintained so that the space can once again host leisure skating next winter.
Council directed administration to proceed with the project as presented. Construction timelines have not yet been announced.
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Fort Kent Recreation Park to Be Transformed into Pump Track While Winter Ice Remains
The Fort Kent Recreation Park is set for a new look this summer — but winter skating isn’t going anywhere.
Council has approved a plan to convert the existing outdoor rink surface into a bike pump track for summer use, while keeping the boards in place so the space can return to leisure ice during the winter months.
The decision followed a public survey to gauge community interest.
According to administration, 35 responses were received. Of those, 57 per cent supported replacing the rink surface with a pump track while maintaining winter ice, 37 per cent wanted to keep the rink as-is and six per cent preferred removing it entirely.
Council ultimately backed the hybrid model.
One councillor said the project strikes a balance between modern recreation needs and preserving traditional winter use, noting the survey showed a clear preference for adapting the space rather than removing it.
What Is a Pump Track?
For those unfamiliar with the concept, a pump track is a looping track made up of rolling mounds, berms and small hills designed for bikes, scooters and skateboards.
Instead of pedalling constantly, riders “pump” their bodies up and down over the terrain to maintain momentum.
The tracks are designed to be accessible for beginners while still offering a challenge for more experienced riders. They’ve grown in popularity in smaller communities because they are relatively low maintenance once built and encourage active outdoor play for youth and families.
Council discussion reflected the idea that the feature could provide a fresh draw for younger residents during the summer months while still allowing winter recreation to continue.
Cost and Funding
The project carries a budget of $158,000 and will be funded through the Town’s Parks and Recreation Infrastructure Reserve.
Over the summer, rink boards will be repaired and maintained so that the space can once again host leisure skating next winter.
Council directed administration to proceed with the project as presented. Construction timelines have not yet been announced.
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