Upon hearing from the Cranbrook Bike Skills Society and their plans to build a bike park (beside the Skate Park) I began to look at other communities and their bike parks. The frequent refrain in Cranbrook from young people is "there is nothing to do." Providing our youth a safe and local outlet for some of their passions is always a good thing. Quesnel is working on their bike park as we speak and most of the work is being done by keen volunteers. Communities such as Whistler, Kimberley, and Fernie all have bike parks that are used by locals but also by tourists. Our City Council seemed supportive of the idea of a bike park but encouraged the Society to garner support from the local neighbourhood around the proposed park. I hope we will be able to overcome any concerns about the park and build a wonderful facility that will be used by many people here in Cranbrook.
Having attended the presentation made to City Council by the Cranbrook Bike Skills Society, I was quite impressed with the thoughtful presentation and by the number of attending young supporters. The current skateboard/bicycle park behind the Rec Plex is normally a hub of activity for the youth using it, causing me to often pause to watch them practice their skills. A well maintained expansion of the current site could be a great asset and outlet for youth in our community, and for visitors.
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