In 2014, Hoots was contacted by the Beaverlodge Parents for Progress Society (BPPS) with a vision to create a Bicycle Skills Park in new playground area behind St. Mary elementary school. Following meetings and site visits, Hoots submitted a proposal to the Society that would include bike park concept and final park layout, design elements and associated budgets, as well as considerations on how to involve the local community.

The project was set in motion following proposal approval in 2015. Hoots worked with the Society to establish goals, priority items and a framework for phased development. This included collaborative approaches to engage the community, local riders, contractors, professional and volunteer forces; build a fun progressive ride area for all levels based on rider and community input; and provide recommendations for future development.

Construction began in late summer 2016 and with enthusiastic support and help from local volunteers, the bike park was completed in early fall housing a central start / return hill with spectator opportunities, beginner to advanced pump track circuits to the east, and progressive jump zone and advanced jump line to the west. The park has been a huge hit and an exciting addition to the community.

(photos courtesy of Beaverlodge Parents for Progress Society & S. MacIntyre)