Vandalism brings home the need for paved pump track

Abuse of the LaunchPad when it's closed during the winter months and wet weather conditions continues to plague Bike Cochrane.

Once again, there's ruts on its packed track, an issue that surfaces every year.

"The damage to the LaunchPad caused by winter users who go in the park when it’s wet, and vandals will cost us another $7,000 this year (and every year) to repair," states the nonprofit organization.

That ongoing expense helps bring home the need to redesign and pave its track. Last October, Bike Cochrane launched fundraising for the upgrade, estimated to cost $150,000.

Since then, it has completed it redesign plans, completed soil testing, and has a good sense of the budget and scope of the project, says Paul Perrault, Bike Cochrane's director of operations.

They hope to go to tender this fall, and for construction to take place next spring.

But that all depends upon fundraising. Perrault says they have about one-fifth of the funding required and continue to pursue additional grants and sponsorships to make the upgrade a reality.

"We were able to get help from Inter Pipeline, the Bow RiversEdge Campground, and the town's community grant program helped us complete our redesign last year," he says. "But as always, if there's community sponsors or businesses interested in in helping, we would absolutely be interested to talk to them about helping us complete our fundraising for the LaunchPad phase two."

One way is by corporate sponsorship.

"Last year, we had almost 25 corporate sponsors and we're beginning that process to renew those sponsors and seek continued support from our business community."

There's also a silent auction fundraiser being held on Apr. 24 at the Royal Canadian Legion in conjunction with their season opening membership drive. Silent auction items are welcome, as are bidders for the wide selection of goods up for grabs.

Perrault says a strong response last year saw it moved to the larger venue so all the items can be properly showcased.

"I think last year we had over 50 donated items with value well in excess of five, six, $7,000 and we're currently accepting donations for it. The proceeds from that will help to put money into the LaunchPad phase two project and get that a little closer."

Those wanting to become a corporate sponsor or donate silent auction items can reach out to Bike Cochrane here. 

You can also learn more about all of their projects and programming here.