Alberta Parks and Recreation is awarding Fort McMurray their ‘Most Significant Change Award’ for an innovative e-bike program.

Thanks to a $40,000 donation from the Royal Canadian Legion Fort McMurray Branch 165 to the Northern Lights Health Foundation, AHS secured a custom-built four-seat e-bike for use by seniors in our community.

The AHS North Zone Public, Population, and Indigenous Health and Seniors Health teams, in conjunction with community agencies, have been using the specialty bicycle regularly since mid-June 2022.

“It’s a unique bike that was designed to be inclusive of all seniors,” says Carolyn Evancio, an AHS Health promotion facilitator in Fort McMurray.

The bicycle is equipped with several safety features to ensure riders with various abilities can enjoy the benefits of the activity. These include a reinforced frame, adaptive pedals for users with limited leg function, extra-large comfort seats for stability, and safety harnesses and armrests. Seats also swivel to accommodate those who may require assistance to transfer onto the bike.

“The bike reduces social isolation, improves mental health, and increases physical movement. All of the seniors have really enjoyed using the bike,” says Evancio.

The bike is also used by AHS Willow Square Continuing Care Centre residents and in collaboration with other community partners, such as Wood Buffalo Housing, Rotary House, Legion Manor, Araubasca House, and St. Aidan’s Society.