Legion Field Improvements

In 2022, the Wapiti Striders Track Club (formerly the Peace Country Wolves Athletic Club) presented to Council a proposal to upgrade the Legion Field track to meet standards for hosting provincial-level events. The request was included in the 2023 budget deliberations and subsequently approved, allocating $1.22 million for track and media tower upgrades.

The Legion Field track and field site serves as a vital training facility and enhances opportunities for athletic competitions that foster community spirit and promote active lifestyles. Hosting large sporting events brings not only economic and sport tourism benefits to the City and region, but also social value through increased community engagement. As the only certified outdoor track in the region, this facility is uniquely positioned to host these high-caliber events.

The field is in daily use for football practices and physical education classes. It also serves schools and user groups from across the region for track meets and community events. Additionally, various fitness groups, including gyms and individual trainers, use the space to host boot camps and other programs.

Stakeholder engagement will be taking place to consult with user groups regarding their requests and priorities for the project. Based on preliminary discussions, the potential project scope may include:

• Resurfacing of the track to improve safety, performance, and durability.
• Replacement of the long jump runway, which has become uneven due to ground heaving, and relocation closer to the track edge
• Relocation of the javelin and high jump areas to the grass field south of the pickleball courts to optimize field layout.
• Repositioning of fencing to enhance site functionality and overall accessibility.
• Resurfacing of the court area west of the pickleball courts to bring it in line with current safety standards.
• Upgrades to the media tower, including installation of Wi-Fi, additional power sources, and repairs to the stairway leading to the third floor, which is currently condemned due to safety concerns.