Motorsports Park Construction Approved in Alberta Despite Wildlife Concerns
The Alberta Environmental Appeals Board has dismissed a challenge to the construction of a motorsports park near Rosebud, Alberta. The project faced opposition from concerned citizens who argued it would harm wildlife, including endangered bank swallows. However, the board ruled that there was not enough evidence to support this claim.
The development, known as Badlands Motorsport Resort, will include a $500 million motorsports park and residential complex. It will be located near the Rosebud River, 100 km east of Calgary.
The project has been met with opposition from some residents, who are concerned about its impact on the environment and wildlife. They argue that the construction will destroy critical habitat for bank swallows and other species. They also worry about the noise and pollution that the racetrack will generate.
The company behind the project, Badlands Motorsport Resort, says that it has taken steps to minimize the environmental impact of the development. They say that the racetrack will be located well above the Rosebud River and that they will implement measures to protect wildlife.
The Alberta Environmental Appeals Board agreed with the company’s assessment, ruling that there was not enough evidence to support the claims of the concerned citizens. The board did, however, require the company to submit a wetland monitoring program proposal to ensure that the wetlands in the area are not harmed.
Construction on the motorsports park is expected to begin this fall. The company hopes to have the project completed by 2024.
Reaction to the decision
The decision by the Alberta Environmental Appeals Board has been met with mixed reactions. Some residents are disappointed with the ruling, while others are relieved that the project will be able to proceed.
Rick Skibsted, an adjacent landowner and farmer, said that he is “totally unacceptable” that the project has been approved. He worries about the impact that the racetrack will have on wildlife and the environment.
Wendy Clark, another farmer in the area, said that she is also concerned about the project. She said that she feels it is her job to take care of the Rosebud River valley and that the development will have a negative impact on the land, the water, and the wildlife.
James Zelazo, the CFO of Badlands Motorsport Resort, said that he is confident that the project will be a success. He said that the company has taken steps to minimize the environmental impact of the development and that they will continue to work with the community to address any concerns.
The Alberta Wilderness Association (AWA) said that it is “deeply disappointed” by the decision of the Alberta Environmental Appeals Board. The AWA said that the project will destroy critical habitat for bank swallows and other species. They also worry about the impact that the racetrack will have on the Rosebud River and the surrounding ecosystem.
Next steps
The company behind the project said that it will begin construction on the motorsports park this fall. They hope to have the project completed by 2024.
The AWA said that it will continue to monitor the project and work to protect the Rosebud River and the surrounding ecosystem.
