When choosing a new neighbourhood, often it’s the amenities that appeal and Southwinds by Mattamy Homes is no exception — or, rather, it is the exception for providing one of the most interesting amenities in Airdrie: a pump track!
A pump track is a unique outdoor amenity that combines hills, banks and other obstacles to create a course for riders to compete without the need for pedalling. Such a space offers an outlet for open-ended enjoyment and creative play for people of all ages and ability levels.
Pump tracks are primarily used by cyclists, but are also targeted towards people with scooters, skateboards or wheelchairs. Paved pump tracks are often enjoyed by wheelchair-users who can ride the track in the same way cyclists or skateboarders do by using the momentum of their body to carry them through the course.
The pump track is located within Mattamy Homes’ Southwinds community. Bounded by the natural creek to the north and by 40th Avenue to the south, this neighbourhood park’s location at the entrance to Southwinds was intentionally chosen to ensure the track is more of a regional amenity, accessible to residents in both Southwinds and neighbouring communities.
“The track includes obstacles and elements that are appropriate for all ages and ability levels, making it a truly inclusive amenity that can be enjoyed without alienating users who require accommodations,” says Mat Simmons, land development manager for Mattamy Homes.
Additionally, the park is equipped with benches and a picnic area which makes the amenity enjoyable for passive users, too. Seating and decorative planting is located closer to 40th to enhance the natural vista available from the park’s vantage point down into the creek bed area and to the west.
“We thought it was important to take this preserved natural amenity and enhance it for our residents by placing the pump track and other park spaces adjacent,” says Simmons. “The close proximity encourages users to spend time immersed in their surroundings outdoors.”
As a result, Mattamy Homes has created a unique and varied user experience and a strong sense of community. Friends and neighbours can take the regional pathway to meet at the park and enjoy physical activity and healthy play, gather for a picnic meal, and soak in the natural beauty around them — all in one place.
The pump track is already open and being enjoyed by people from across Airdrie. Southwinds residents also have access to a new pickleball court and playground. This, combined with the spray park in nearby Chinook Winds Park, means Southwinds is more than where you’ll find your new home — it’s where you find your new life.
