Vernon Pump Track

The Village of Vernon currently offers two recreational areas: Vernon Park, which includes play structures and a swing set, and the Vernon Recreation Centre, which provides playing fields, a boarded rink, and indoor facilities.

A recent community survey identified a need for additional amenities for children and youth aged 6–16. Respondents emphasized a demand for more challenging play opportunities, suggesting features such as skate parks, bike tracks, and pump tracks. The survey also indicated that existing facilities may be underutilized.

Further consultation with the Community Association revealed that a pump track concept had already been developed for the area within the boarded rink. However, a site review determined that the greenspace immediately north of the rink would be a more suitable location, allowing both the rink and pump track to function fully without conflict.

An aerial view of the modular pump track layout.

As the project has evolved, two design approaches have been identified:

Modular Pump Track:
This option involves a prefabricated system that can be installed on existing grades. This option can be used by all roller sports - skateboards, rollerblades, scooters and bicycles etc.) It features a vandal-resistant fiberglass riding surface supported by a covered wooden frame elevated from the ground for durability. The track components are mechanically connected, allowing for disassembly and reconfiguration over time. A hardscape apron and access paths would include seating and other amenities to support users.

Stock perspective of modular pump track layout

Bicycle Park (Naturalized Track):
This approach integrates existing site features to create a more varied riding experience. The course combines stone dust with manufactured elements and could incorporate additional surfaces such as wood chips or pavers. This option is more suited to large wheel roller sports such as bicycles and some scooters. Built features consist of metal supports with wooden slat riding surfaces, offering a more organic, park-like setting.

An aerial view of the bicycle park layout

Project Timeline:

• Design 2026, Construction 2027

Please answer the brief survey below to share your feedback. The survey will remain open until 24 July 2026.

Please note: The final design may differ slightly from the concepts presented, depending on feedback received, technical feasibility, and budget or supply constraints.

What We Heard

Thank you to everyone who participated in the public consultation for the proposed Vernon Pump Track. The Canada Day pop-up event was well attended with 53 votes cast. The Engage Ottawa project page received 578 visits, with 485 residents viewing project information, 115 participants exploring project materials more deeply, and 18 residents completing the survey and providing feedback on two proposed concept options: a Modular Pump Track and a Bicycle Park Style Pump Track. Survey responses favored the Bicycle Park Style concept while emphasizing safety, accessibility, durability, and inclusivity for all skill levels.

What residents like about the proposed Bicycle Park Style concept:

• Natural fit with the community – Better reflects Vernon’s rural character and blends with the surrounding environment.
• Varied and progressive riding experience – Offers diverse features, route options, and challenges for different skill levels.
• Family-friendly recreation – Accommodates a wide range of ages and abilities.
• Unique cycling amenity – Provides a recreation opportunity that is less common in the city.

What residents like about the proposed Modular Pump Track concept:

• Multi-use functionality supporting bicycles, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades.
• Accessibility and ease of use for a variety of wheeled activities.

Thoughts residents had on the overall project:

• Consider safety through adequate space and sightlines.
• Review surfacing materials to reduce injury risk.
• Consider long-term maintenance and durability.
• Concerns with inappropriate use by motor vehicles which will be further evaluated and addressed through signage and enforcement.

Next Steps & Decisions

The engagement phase is now complete, and the project team will use public feedback to help inform the selection and refinement of the preferred concept for the Vernon Pump Track. Future updates will continue to be shared through the Engage Ottawa project page as the project advances through planning and design.