Skateboarders and bike riders are excited that a new multi-skills park is going forward. The wider community, however, also should take note because it could be part of something much bigger than young people spending their free time riding boards and bikes.
Cities are always looking for ways to keep youth active and engaged. If you’re young and not into nature walks, sports, youth groups or the arts, you might be searching for something of interest. Community bike and skateboard skills parks can provide much benefit and they can help improve quality of life for some teens.
The proposed park has great potential to engage youth and contribute to fitness and a healthy lifestyle, not to mention develop well-rounded riders. The Summer Olympics now include cross-country mountain bike riding and BMX racing. Who knows the impact of something like a few bike ramps could have on a youngster who is interested in trying something new? This park also fits into a much bigger picture of how Powell River can move forward.
Our economy has been transitioning away from its reliance on traditional industry and resource extraction. Recent studies have shown that the amount of money being spent on mountain bike tourism is increasing steadily each year in our province as more Canadian and international cycling tourists choose BC as their destination.
Powell River is blessed with unbeatable geography for cross-country mountain bike and downhill trails. Add to a year-round riding climate unlike most places in Canada with harsh winters.
BC Bike Race is one way visitors are discovering what Powell River has to offer, but it is not enough to have a once-a-year event.
We already have a developing cycling culture which is being lead by some passionate advocates of Powell River Cycling Association. They have worked to promote the idea of bike lanes and carved new trails in the backcountry. Now what is required is having Powell River’s youth more involved. That’s where this park could help. Once riders learn some skills in the park and build their confidence, they will be interested to see what the trails have in store for them and help in their development.
The park will help Powell River further distinguish itself on the coast where a lot of other communities are facing the same economic challenges, and are more and more reliant on tourism. It’ll give us a pedal up.
