In July 2022, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced $435,000 in funding through the Innovative Communities Fund to support the implementation of Phases 1 and 2 of the Railyard Mountain Bike Park Master Plan. The total project costs are approximately $870,000.
The Railyard Mountain Bike Park, located in the southwestern section of Victoria Park, has grown into an extensive mountain biking network. It offers terrain for riders of all ages and abilities with various trails and skills parks. It appeals to both local riders and tourists.
The Railyard Master Plan, which was completed in 2019, has the overall objective of creating a sustainable and balanced approach to tourism, local development, and community wellness. The Plan balances making the most out of the opportunities for tourism and maximizing the economic impact for the community while preserving the benefits of Victoria Park as an urban green space for all.
Phases 1 and 2 of the project are currently underway. While the project has a large scope it focuses on staff training, trail maintenance, enhancing signage and services, marketing and promotion, and the construction of new trails, washroom facilities, expanding parking and upgrading entrances.
During the winter of 2021, the Town of Truro conducted an economic impact assessment on visitors to the Railyard through the winter months. The survey found that 41% of people using the Railyard during the winter were from outside of Truro, primarily from the Halifax Regional Municipality. The assessment also found that the average visitor to the Railyard was spending approximately $80/day while they were in Truro.
The Town again conducted an economic impact during the summer months and found that 39% of riders were from outside of the Truro area. People who spent the day in Truro spent approximately $69 per person during their visit, while those that stayed overnight spent on average $78 per person, per day. The study also found that almost 24% of all riders were under the age of 18!
View the pdf Railyard Master Plan (5.62 MB) .
