A project to build a pump track for sports bike enthusiasts on Nuns Island continues to divide the community more than a year and a half after it was announced. Christopher Briere launched a mobilization against the track, which is slated to go next to a nature park. He said nobody wants it in his neighbourhood. “We’ve chosen this particular neighbourhood, this environment for the beauty that you see here with the forest, with the parks, with the ability to run and to do other activities,” he said. Pump tracks are a relatively recent suburban phenomenon that allows youth to practice biking in a relatively safe environment. Bikers take part in challenges that are then shared on social media. Nuns’ Island locals worry that the track will disturb wildlife. “There hasn’t been any approval from the minister, the Minister for the Environment,” said Briere. “They’ve already spent, what’s important to note, $270,000 on the site already without ministerial approval.” The Verdun borough says the environmental approval is an administrative measure, and that it’s already sent its call for tenders. CTV News contacted the borough for an interview, but was unsuccessful. Opponents show up at every meeting to voice their opposition. “Originally, this project was supposed to cost $800,000,” said Briere. “We’re already probably close to two and a half million dollars, and that’s without any penalties.” A local citizen has already filed a lawsuit against Verdun, arguing that it didn’t respect existing environmental requirements for the area. However, as far as the administration is concerned, work is scheduled to begin this spring.
