The community of Evanston in northwest Calgary has added the first ever winter amenity to the Rotary–Mattamy Greenway pathway system.

Phase one of the amenity plan, 10 years in the making by the Evanston Creekside Community Association (ECCA), provides a uniquely designed natural skating rink, tobogganing hill, and natural play elements directly on the pathway system.

The nearly $600,000 community park opened officially to the public on Saturday, representing a major milestone in the transformation of the park space along Symons Valley Parkway and Evanston Drive.

“It is very exciting to be first in the city to be able to offer this sort of access to our community,” said Robbie Morton, president of ECCA.

“I think it’s a very important gathering space for the community of Evanston—it’s multi seasonal, and it’s multi generational.”

The community is currently working on funding phase two of the project. It would add an outdoor shade structure, a natural theatre space, and community gardens. Phase one funding was provided by the City of Calgary, the Parks Foundation Calgary, the Government of Alberta, and Tourmaline Oil in addition to fundraising within the community.