Capital Off Road Pathfinders secure approval for Middleton Bike Park trail expansion

The Parks, Recreation and Forestry Commission meeting held on March 17, 2025, focused on key developments regarding local biking infrastructure and safety improvements. The meeting began with a proposal from the Capital Off Road Pathfinders (Corp) for the expansion of a mountain bike trail at the Middleton Bike Park, specifically adjacent to the Pleasant View Golf Course.

The proposed expansion aims to enhance cyclist safety by converting a previously two-way stretch of trail into a designated two-lane path, allowing for one lane in each direction. This change is expected to significantly improve safety for cyclists using the trail. The commission reviewed a memo outlining the authorization details for the trail extension, which included an updated map of the trail system and minutes from previous meetings of the Pleasant View Golf Course Advisory Committee.

After discussing the proposal, a motion was made to approve the trail expansion as outlined in the memo. The motion received a second, and following a brief discussion, it was unanimously approved by the commission.

The meeting then transitioned to the next agenda item concerning the KU Good Connector multi-use path. Mark Opitz from the planning department provided background information on the project, noting that it has been part of the bicycle pedestrian plan since its adoption in February 2009. The commission reviewed the final plans, access easement agreements, and maintenance agreements related to the project.

Overall, the meeting highlighted significant steps towards improving biking infrastructure in Middleton, with a focus on safety and accessibility for cyclists. The commission's approval of the trail expansion marks a positive development for the local biking community, while the ongoing discussions about the KU Good Connector path indicate a long-term commitment to enhancing pedestrian and cyclist facilities in the area.