Council approves construction contract for new pump (bike) park along North River Avenue

City council voted Sept. 9 to approve a construction contract for a new asphalt pump (bike) park on a city‑owned parcel at 97 N. River Ave, a riverfront area staff said has limited alternate uses and is now being converted into a multi‑skill bike facility.

Eric Garrett, who presented the design and budget, described a plan with three main components: a beginner/adaptive pump track for very young or adaptive users, a full intermediate/advanced loop for experienced riders and site amenities that include security lighting, a pavilion, bike racks and access to nearby parking (staff said Window on the Waterfront parking and other local arrangements will provide primary parking). Garrett told council the buildable area is about 3–4 acres and that the design used asphalt to reduce ongoing grading and maintenance demands.

On project cost, staff said the recommended commitment from the Municipal Capital Improvement Fund (MCIF/TAD) is $600,000 and presented a total project figure of about $700,703.63. Garrett noted the city had been awarded a RAP grant of $185,600 but that the grant had not yet been formally accepted by council and could not be counted as a committed funding source at the time of the vote.

Council members asked about security, lighting, fencing and maintenance. Garrett said lighting and patrols would be the primary deterrent and that asphalt limits recurring maintenance; fencing can be installed later if needed and the parks maintenance crew will manage mowing and routine upkeep. After discussion council approved the construction contract by roll call.

What happens next: staff will execute the contract, finalize any grant acceptance steps, coordinate parking and site access and schedule construction; the project was budgeted within the city’s TAD/MCIF allocation and council approved moving forward.