Parks commission recommends Rotary Park RC-racetrack upgrades after community push

The Bullhead City Parks and Recreation Commission on an unspecified date voted 4-0 to recommend that City Council approve a package of improvements for the Rotary Park remote-control (RC) racetrack, commissioners said during a public meeting.

Commissioners said the upgrades aim to support growing community interest and recurring events at the site. Parks and Recreation Superintendent Heath said the package includes new track clay, added electrical outlets, lights, signage and improved ADA access and noted, “Money was budgeted this year for this track by city council, so we're excited about that.”

The commission heard from several members of the RC community during the meeting. David Alton, who said he moved to Bullhead City in November, described early turnout: “The smiles on the kids' faces were ear to ear,” and confirmed the track accepts all sizes of RC cars. Club members and hobbyists described recent volunteer and private donations to support the track; Superintendent Heath said S and S Concrete donated six loads of dirt and the city expects to purchase about 10 additional loads.

Club organizers outlined specific items planned or requested: two additional water hoses for track maintenance, electrical outlets by the drivers' stand and in the track shed, installation of lights that organizers said are in town and expected to be installed soon, and signage to clarify acceptable behavior and safety protocols. Organizers also asked the city to improve ADA access to the driver stand and track area.

Local hobby-store owner Brian, who identified his business as Bullitt Hobbies, offered to provide community education and safety guidance for lithium polymer (LiPo) battery charging after noting recent local incidents. He told the commission he can “educate repair of the RC, LiPo battery safety,” and encouraged hobbyists to visit his shop for training.

Speakers also proposed additional uses of the park property: Anthony Del Vecchio suggested a clay oval for higher-speed oval racing, a paved area for drag events, and a “crawler garden” in existing drainage features to provide an accessible course for people with mobility devices. Harvey Prower, who said he started a local RC Facebook page, urged broad community participation: “Please, come play with us.”

Commissioners moved and seconded a motion to recommend the improvements as presented; the vote was recorded as 4 in favor and the motion carried. Commissioners and organizers said the club-run events collect modest entry fees (organizers said $10 per participant at races) and that those funds are used to purchase materials and trophies.

Next steps: The commission's recommendation will be forwarded to Bullhead City Council for final approval and any permitting or budget adjustments. Organizers said they will continue to post practice and event updates through the Bullhead RC Off Road Racers Facebook page and local hobby shops.

Ending: Commission and community speakers said they expect activity at the track to expand if the upgrades proceed, including a summer schedule tied to installed lighting and continued volunteer support.