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City shows preferred concept for Wheel Sports Park; public favors "Bend" layout
Summary
City staff presented conceptual designs for a Wheel Sports Park on airport-leased land adjacent to the Swamp Rabbit Trail, saying public feedback favored a distributed "Bend" layout; staff plan to refine the concept, complete cost estimating and pursue fundraising and design work with a goal of early 2027 construction start if funding is secured.
City recreation staff presented conceptual designs and public-engagement results for a proposed Wheel Sports Park (pump track and skate features) on a roughly 10-acre site leased from the downtown airport.
Caitlin and Jeff summarized outreach and three initial concept alternatives dubbed the "Beam," "Bend" and "Bar." The team said the public survey and two community meetings produced about 16,000 online responses and in-person turnout that favored the "Bend" hybrid concept because it balanced concentrated activity areas, trail connectivity and easier event logistics and parking.
The site plan under study would develop about five of the 10 acres as the main sports area, reserve tree stands and incorporate trail connections to the Swamp Rabbit Trail and an emerging airport-loop trail. Planned elements include a pump track, skate features of varying difficulty, shaded gathering areas, restrooms and a trailhead with water and bike parking. Staff said shade structures are being prioritized to provide immediate shelter as newly planted trees mature.
Staff noted the site is airport-leased property and that the project team has held preliminary discussions with the Federal Aviation Administration; further submittal and coordination with the FAA and airport commission will be required for certain elements (lighting, sound, structures). The project team plans a final public concept iteration on Dec. 9, refined cost estimating through February and a goal of beginning construction in early 2027 if funding and approvals align.
Council members asked that staff push neighborhood outreach, confirm FAA constraints before publishing final visuals, and clarify phased-versus-one-time build options. Staff said the project is being planned holistically but will require private fundraising and likely public-private partnerships for construction and operations.
No formal council action was taken; staff planned additional outreach and technical coordination.
