Wildrose Update
The City has taken the next steps regarding Wildrose Park. Please read below to stay informed about the latest updates, what actions you can take, and a friendly reminder on how Wildrose requests the community to represent themselves.
THE FOLLOWING IS DIRECTLY FROM WILDROSE EMAIL LIST:
Important Update
Dear Members and Riders,
We have some important news regarding the future of Wild Rose Motocross Park (WRMA). As you may soon see in local media, the City of Calgary has officially announced that it intends to proceed with the re-development of the Park (Burbank Road) and Highfield Farms (Highfield Crescent Site) for public transit infrastructure. While the City has not indicated when these changes will take effect, they have suggested that the planning timeline will be 12-15 months. They have renegotiated a 5-year lease with us that has a significant eviction notice that cannot be triggered for 14 months. The park will continue to operate at full capacity through at least the 2026 season, with the potential for an extended timeline beyond that. We will continue to work closely with the City of Calgary to determine next steps.
Link to learn more: https://newsroom.calgary.ca/building-for-future-transit-south-central-bus-garage/
We are extremely disappointed that the City of Calgary has shortlisted the WRMA as the site to be further evaluated for public transit infrastructure development. WRMA is a one-of-a-kind facility—not just in Calgary, but in the world. It is irreplaceable.
WRMA as Calgary’s only off-road riding facility—a facility that has existed for decades, serving riders of all levels in a controlled, safe, and organized environment. Eliminating this space would be a devastating loss, not only to the motocross and off-road community but to the broader sport and recreation landscape in Calgary.
Did You Know: In 2023 the WRMA’s Economic Impact in Calgary was $7.1 million, $8 million in the province of Alberta, and $10.1 million nationwide.
We hope that the City will recognize the significance of WRMA and continue to work with us to find a solution—one that does not leave off-road riders without a place to go. Our community deserves better.
We are calling on all stakeholders, from our members to City officials, to continue to engage with us in this critical fight for the future of off-road riding in Calgary.
What This Means for WRMA:
The City has confirmed that both the Park and the adjacent Highfield Crescent site will be required for transit infrastructure, meaning, if the City’s plan proceeds, WRMA will eventually need to fully vacate the land.
While this could be a significant loss for our community, we are grateful for the advanced notice and the opportunity to work toward a solution.
We are actively working to determine next steps and will continue engaging closely with the City to advocate for the future of off-road riding in Calgary.
We Know This is a Huge Blow
WRMA’s Park is more than just a track—it’s a world-renowned motocross facility, a home for grassroots motorsports, and a hub for family, friends, and businesses that rely on the riding community. This decision could affect not just our riders, but also local bike shops, mechanics, and the many small businesses that support the sport.
While we understand this news will spark strong emotions, we want to stress the importance of remaining respectful and professional as we move forward.
Opportunities - and Hope!
This project is not yet funded and it will be expensive. There is a chance funding for this project is delayed, giving us more time at the park.
The City of Calgary has been very cooperative and accommodating in supporting us staying on the land for as long as possible. We will continue to work with them to find a solution.
The Save the Park Committee is fully engaged in looking for a new park. We have some potentially positive leads that we are actively working on. We will share more information on this topic as soon as we can.
The City is looking for another parcel of land to ride on with in the City limits. However, they have acknowledged this will be challenging.
So, What’s Next?
We know you have questions, and we promise to keep you informed every step of the way. In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to provide updates and evaluate all possible solutions.
We appreciate your support, passion, and dedication to WRMA. While this is difficult news, we are committed to fighting for the future of off-road riding in Calgary. Thank you for standing with us.
What Can You Do:
✔ Ride!! The more memberships and day fees, the better.
✔ Tell your friends and family to ride!
✔ Buy a membership
✔ Donate to the park (if you can)
✔ Plan to attend the Super Series and bring your friends and family!
Resources to Help Guide Conversations
We know many of you will be having conversations with fellow riders, community members, and local businesses about this situation. To help guide these discussions, we have compiled key messages outlining the financial contributions of WRMA to Calgary and beyond.
SEE ACTUAL EMAIL
Friendly Reminder About Social Media:
It is absolutely critical that we conduct ourselves with professionalism in all discussions, both online and in person. Our ability to engage productively with the City depends on how we present ourselves. Please keep in mind:
✔ Be respectful in all social media posts and comments. Negative or inflammatory remarks could hurt our efforts to negotiate for a future riding space.
✔ Misinformation can spread quickly. If you have questions, please reach out directly to WRMA instead of speculating online.
✔ We are in this together
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
Sincerely,
The WRMA Board of Directors & Save the Park Committee