Fireman’s Park plans $600,000 renewal

The Bellevue Fireman’s Park Society is asking the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass to support a major renewal of the municipally owned park, including a new mini-golf course, work on the cook shelter and landscaping improvements.

Society president Randi Lynn Rinaldi told council Sept. 15 that the group’s “dream wish” is for the municipality to provide about $300,000, or roughly half of the project funding. Council made no funding commitment at the meeting.

The largest proposed component is a replacement for the park’s 18-hole mini-golf course. Rinaldi said the work is estimated at between $420,000 and $540,000.

The society also presented a preliminary estimate of $60,000 to $100,000 to refurbish or rebuild the cook shelter and an estimate of $30,000 for landscaping work, including rebuilding stairs that connect to the community trail. Its longer-term ideas include public art and changes to the horseshoe and bocce areas.

Rinaldi said the mini-golf course remains usable but its carpet is torn, wood components are deteriorating and sand no longer remains in its bunkers. The course was built beginning in 1987.

“For 40 years, it’s in very impressive condition, but it definitely does need to be brought up to speed,” she said.

The park dates to 1984, when land donated by Scurry Rainbow Oil Company was developed by the Bellevue Fire Department and community volunteers. The park now includes a playground, shelters, green space, picnic areas, toboggan hills and camping by reservation.

The municipality owns the land and leases it to the society. Municipal responsibilities under the lease include water, electricity, playground audits, weed and pest control and major repairs, according to the society’s presentation. The volunteer group handles bookings, routine maintenance, garbage disposal, outhouse pumping and seasonal staffing.

Rinaldi said the park had about 45 group bookings between June and the end of September 2026, in addition to uncounted daily walk-in use. Bookings include weddings, family reunions, birthday parties and school activities.

Before beginning grant applications, the society is seeking general municipal approval for the project, letters of support and help receiving grants that require an eligible public body. It also wants in-kind municipal help with water and electrical upgrades and the disposal of construction debris.

The society expects to seek grants, corporate sponsorships and community donations for its share. Rinaldi said the cost estimates include paid labour, although donated labour or materials could reduce the final price.

Council members questioned Rinaldi about security, grant eligibility, public access during private bookings and the future of the horseshoe pits. No motion was made to approve the project or provide money.

The society said grant applications and detailed fundraising work would follow once it receives municipal support for the proposed renewal.