Proposed site layout with new amenities at Weyerhaeuser Pioneer Park in Clearwater. (Image Credit: District of Clearwater)
New Recreational Amenities

District of Clearwater seeking feedback on proposed additions to Weyerhaeuser Pioneer Park

Jun 15, 2025 | 12:19 PM

CLEARWATER, B.C. — The District of Clearwater is seeking feedback on plans to add a new a dog park and a new bike park with a dirt pump track at Weyerhaeuser Pioneer Park.

It says the proposed amenities would be in addition to the existing playground and the Dragonfly water park, and that there is enough space to add both amenities to the park located behind the Buy Low Foods.

In a post online, the District of Clearwater said the Rotary Club has asked for a fenced off-leash dog park to be created. It also said the Rotary Club will fundraise to cover all or a portion of the costs, and the District will ensure the park “is maintained to a high standard.”

“Dog parks are very common features, with many in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District area alone,” the District said. “Many people already choose to walk dogs in Weyerhaeuser Pioneer Park.”

“Access to these areas allow dogs to become socialized to other dogs, to exercise, and have fun. If this park use proceeds, the intention is to leave most of trees in place allowing a shaded area for the dogs and less visual disturbance for the neighborhood.”

The District also said the bike park, which will also feature a kids bike trail network, was proposed by a “relatively large” group of community biking enthusiasts, who they note have committed to fundraising for it as well as ongoing maintenance, should it go ahead.

That trail network could include elements like bridges, ladders and other natural-style obstacles, while the dirt-surface pump track would feature humps, jumps and banked corners to teach rider skills.

“Both the trail network and pump track will be built into the natural treed environment with the goal of minimal tree removal, other than for safety purposes,” the District said.

“Bike parks are another community amenity giving children and families more things to do together, and are a great way to improve rider skills, get exercise and enjoy the outdoors in a safe setting.”

The District of Clearwater noted that while there would be benefits to the project, like more opportunities for outdoor recreation and better public parks, it noted there are also some challenges, like an increase in noise as well as vehicles due to the added foot traffic.

An open-house type meeting is scheduled for Wednesday (June 25) between 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at the park. Residents will also be able to have their say via an online survey or by writing to the District of Clearwater before June 30.

“Staff will prepare a report back to the District Council which outlines the level of community support for this project,” the District statement said.

“If Council is still interested in the project after hearing back from the public, staff will prepare cost estimates related to the design, construction, and ongoing maintenance. Then, once Council understands the costs, they can decide whether or not to proceed.”

District staff also said that in addition to fundraising, the two groups behind the project – the Rotary Club and local biking enthusiasts – will look for grants opportunities and community sponsors to reduce costs.

It said those groups may also help with the actual construction work should the projects proceed.

You can find more information about the proposed dog park and bike park here.