Rockyford briefs: Park improvements, new homes and community projects move ahead

By Melissa Crispin-Piche Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

From improvements at Prairie Ridge Historical Park to new housing and a busy start to the winter recreation season, Rockyford Mayor Darcy Burke shared updates on projects and activities around the village.

Historical Park and recreation space taking shape

Prairie Ridge Historical Park continues to grow on the former Golden Hill School property, which the village purchased about six or seven years ago.

A community group approached council about leasing part of the green space to create the park. Since then, fundraising, donations and provincial grants have helped bring the investment to more than $150,000, Burke said.

The park showcases turn-of-the-century farm equipment restored by local farmers. A pavilion planned for the fall will house a threshing machine, with additional equipment displays installed as restoration work is completed.

“They look like they’re brand new,” said Burke. “They’re fantastic looking implements.”

Community donations have also supported benches and solar lamps throughout the park.

Alongside the historical displays, the village is upgrading the outdoor sports courts to include pickleball and basketball.

Burke said that work was underway at the time of the interview and expected to be completed within a few weeks. The property also has a large playground.

Organizers hope to hold a grand opening, although a date had not been confirmed.

New homes under construction

Redevelopment of the former school property is also creating room for growth. The village developed residential lots and a commercial lot on the site.

Two residential lots have sold, with homes under construction, and Burke said there has recently been serious interest in the commercial property.

With available property limited in Rockyford, Burke said acquiring the school site has been a positive step for the community.

Former school becoming a cultural centre

The former Golden Hill School building has been purchased by members of the Sikh community and is being converted into a cultural centre.

Burke said about 50 local residents attended a recent open house, where they had an opportunity to ask questions about the plans.

The centre is expected to open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and welcome community members. Plans include a commercial kitchen, while the gym is being made available for public use.

Solar panels expected to reduce village costs

A rooftop solar installation at the village office had completed its first month of production at the time of the interview.

The panels supply electricity to the office and adjacent fire hall. Burke said they are expected to meet approximately 75 per cent of the two buildings’ electrical needs, with estimated net savings of $7,000 annually.

The project cost just over $44,000. Funding came through the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre and the Canada Community-Building Fund, without requiring money from the village’s own revenues, Burke said.

Council will monitor the system’s performance before considering solar panels for other community-owned buildings.

Rodeo events draw strong crowds

Rockyford’s two annual rodeo events continue to grow, Burke said. The village hosts Bullarama on June 30 and a professional rodeo at the end of July.

This year’s rodeo brought strong crowds, favourable weather and the highest profit return for the local Lions Club in many years.

“We had outstanding crowds and they were thirsty and hungry and they just enjoyed themselves,” said Burke.

Winter recreation gets underway

Hockey and ringette have started at the arena, bringing a busy opening weekend to the village. Curling is also expected to get underway.

Burke credited community fundraising with helping replace the curling rink’s ice plant a couple of years ago. Residents raised more than $200,000 within 12 months.

The recreation facilities offer opportunities to play, watch games and spend time with neighbours throughout the winter.

New rescue truck arrives

Rockyford received a new rescue truck this spring after a two-year wait. The purchase was funded by the Village of Rockyford, Wheatland County and the Rockyford Rural Fire Association.

Burke said the truck will serve residents and neighbouring communities for years to come.