Volunteers plan improvements to McCormick BMX track, including paving starting hill

A long-time volunteer who has helped run the McCormick BMX track said he intends to remain involved but is handing leadership to a new volunteer group and wants to pursue improvements that would reduce ongoing maintenance. The volunteer said the group has funds to pave the starting hill and is exploring paving high-wear corners — a trend at many modern pump-track facilities — to reduce ruts and the need for frequent volunteer maintenance. He said paving those two problem areas should make the track more sustainable and easier to keep open year-round. Commissioners asked whether paved sections would be harder to crash on; volunteers said crashes are still likely on either surface but that paving decreases rutting and maintenance. The volunteer said they have material funding but need volunteer labor and a contractor for installation and that he would seek the city’s blessing and coordinate with parks staff. Commissioners and staff encouraged the volunteer group to keep the commission informed and seek formal approval if a contractor will be involved or if city land needs modification.