Saint John Cycling is leading a grassroots push to restore the Rockwood Mountain Bike Beginners’ Skills Park and Flow Trail.

The group has launched the Mountain Bike Skills Park, Flow Trails Fundraiser with a goal of raising $50,000 for a full professional rebuild.

The volunteer-run nonprofit has long supported Rockwood Park’s trail network.

Patrick Graves, a volunteer trail designer with the group, said the original park was built 13 years ago by volunteers with limited resources, but has remained one of the most popular cycling spots in the area.

“We also want to include small features that teach people basic mountain biking skills, from flat cornering to getting up and over obstacles, to doing small drops,” Graves said.

“That’s all built in a way that facilitates learning in a safe environment.”

Graves said the new design will use sustainable materials and modern trail-building techniques to improve safety and durability.

So far, the group has raised just under $10,000, with support from the City of Saint John and local businesses.

“Even if we have to do a little bit of it on a volunteer basis, we’re working with the resources that are available to us and pushing forward,” Graves said.

“We’re really hoping people see that we’re focused and dedicated to making this happen.”

Graves added that demolition of the old park has already begun, and early redesign work is underway with help from Diggin’ Trail Building and Design.

The team hopes to complete the project before winter, though fundraising will continue into next year if needed.

Donations and sponsorships can be made at Saint John Cycling.