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Council approves appraisals, moves to study mountain‑bike park on city land near Akopopka Road
Summary
Council approved staff work to obtain appraisals and pursue a memorandum of understanding with Southern Off‑Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) to study development of a mountain‑bike park on a 14.6‑acre city parcel and adjacent privately‑owned land; staff will return with feasibility, appraisals and potential land‑swap or purchase options.
The council on Aug. 6 approved staff requests to obtain property appraisals and to pursue a memorandum of understanding with the Southern Off‑Road Bicycle Association (SORBA) to advance study of a mountain‑bike park on city‑owned land at 1102 Apopka Road.
"Build it and they will come," Sue (SORBA volunteer) told council members during public comment, urging investment and noting nearby examples of successful trail destinations.
Project concept and partners: city staff described a preliminary plan for an initial, natural‑surface trail network and a small skills/pump track on a 14.6‑acre parcel the city acquired from Orange County. Apopka staff reported that the adjacent Ridge Self Storage LLC property owner has expressed interest in working with the city and could add about 12 acres, producing a combined park approaching 38 acres if acquired or swapped.
Funding and next steps: staff told council that FY 2025‑26 recreation impact fees included a proposed $500,000 line item for the park (staff said $810,900 of rec fees had already been collected from local developments and that an unallocated recreation balance existed in the draft FY26 budget). Council authorized appraisals for the Ridge parcel and city Harmon Road parcel, asked staff to seek developer participation on appraisal cost if appropriate, and directed staff to develop an MOU with SORBA. The council vote to proceed with appraisals and next steps was unanimous.
Community comments and site considerations: SORBA emphasized trail tourism and volunteer construction/maintenance support; residents and commissioners asked staff to incorporate ADA‑accessible trail elements, restroom access and safe parking into the design. Staff said a more detailed site design and cost estimate would follow engineer quotes and completed appraisals.
Decision significance: council approval authorizes appraisals and further feasibility work, and does not commit the city to a purchase or land swap. Staff said the administration would present options following appraisals and MOU negotiation.
