Sarnia residents now have a new place to ride, with a brand-new pump track officially open at Canatara Park.

The asphalt track replaces the old dirt ramps and jumps at the park, which city staff say had reached the end of their usable life and demanded constant upkeep.

"The old track was a dirt-based track with some wooden structures. Unfortunately, it had just come to its end of life, and actually required significant annual maintenance and repairs. And that's when the decision was made to go with a no-maintenance asphalt track," said Tom Burnard, manager of facility and park services, in comments reported by Sarnia News Today.

The new facility is designed for riders aged two and up, on bikes, skateboards and scooters. The city is asking everyone using the track to wear full protective gear while riding.

Part of a broader recreation renewal

"It's essentially a playground for those on bikes, skateboards, and scooters. The track was designed for riders of all ages and skill levels. So far, I believe it's been really well received. I've been there often, and it's been very busy. So it's great to see a new amenity in Canatara being used already," Burnard said, according to Sarnia News Today.

The track is one piece of an ongoing multi-year effort by the city to renew, revitalize and expand its recreational facilities. Sarnia's 2026 Capital Budget sets aside more than $5.6 million for recreation spaces and facilities across the city.

Burnard pointed to several other projects that have been completed this year as part of that push.

"2026 saw the installation of two new splash pads in the city, one in Brights Grove at Kenwick Park, and one in Germain Park that recently opened. Two playgrounds were recently installed: one also in Germain Park, and one that just opened this past week at Clearwater Community Centre," he said.

Where to find it

The pump track sits across from the Children's Animal Farm inside Canatara Park, making it easy to spot for families already familiar with the popular waterfront park.

With early use reported as heavy, the city appears to have landed on an amenity that fills a gap for local riders — one that, unlike its predecessor, won't require annual repairs to stay in shape.