There were three proposed locations for the pump track, which is a type of off-road terrain for cycle sport: Shetley land, Hank Anderson Park land and land near the Adams Tract.
During the public hearing on the location of a new pump track for intermediate to advanced riders, board members considered the location of the beginners’ track, which is already planned for Martin Luther King Jr. Park, close to the Shetley land.
“It is important to have the two close to each other, so the younger kids may be inspired by the older kids,” Board of Aldermen member Sammy Slade said. “I also think it is important that the park is within reasonable biking or walking distance.”
Many community members felt it was a bad idea to have the area cohabitated by teenagers and young children, for fear of safety.
They urged board members to consider the Hank Anderson Park instead of the Shetley property.
The board said they felt the Hank Anderson Park land was not as easy to access.
“To me, it is not a matter of distance, but a matter of ease of access — especially for young riders with little biking experience,” Board of Aldermen member Damon Seils said.
Board members also considered the importance of the planning of the Shetley property land, as it is currently fully-wooded and they hope to keep some vegetation.
