FARMINGTON – Bike enthusiasts in the Four Corners are about to get pumped. The city of Farmington announced it has obtained funds to begin construction on a pump track for bike riders.
“It’s the first time we’ll have a pump track so we’re all really excited,” said Shaña Reeves, director of the city’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs department.
The city received a $10,000 grant from People for Bikes, an organization focused on getting more people involved in all aspects of biking and developing a community of support around the sport. The track will be on the south side of Sycamore Park, an area currently undeveloped, Reeves said.
Although the dirt track will initially be a quarter of an acre in size, Reeves said it leaves room for development and expansion in years to come. She also said the course will start off as a beginner-to-intermediate level but could later be modified for more advanced riders.
While Durango has its own BMX track, this will be Farmington’s first course of its kind. Since its a new development for the city, Reeves said the city wants to be flexible. She added, before construction begins, the department plans to hold community meetings to get feedback and ideas from people in the area familiar with pump tracks.
The grant will cover the construction of the track, and Reeves said the city is considering adding amenities – funded separately – like shade constructions and a walking trail for people watching bikers at the track.
Reeves said this is one more development under the city’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Initiative. Farmington started its outdoor recreation program in 2018 to promote the outdoor industry throughout the region and in hopes of diversifying the area’s economy.
“Pump tracks provide a fun and positive atmosphere for people of all ages and skill levels. Adding this amenity to the Sycamore Park area will create more recreational opportunities for individuals and families,” said the ORII Director Warren Unsicker, in a written statement.
Construction on the track is expected to start late spring, Reeves said.
lweber@durangoherald.com
