Fiscal court gives conditional approval to pursue BMX track at county parkland

The Woodford County fiscal court voted unanimously to contingently approve pursuit of a BMX track on county farm parkland and authorized the judge executive and the parks director to continue negotiations and discussions on land use.

The proposal was presented by Ben Marzico of Bluegrass Berms and introduced by Rich Pickter, director of Woodford County Versailles Parks and Recreation. Marzico said the group was "not here to ask for money," seeking only land access and permitting; the nonprofit intends to raise funds and solicit in‑kind donations for construction and operations.

Bluegrass Berms described a three‑phase development plan, with a phase‑1, entry‑level track estimated at roughly $100,000 to $500,000 if paid entirely by the group. Presenters said a local company, Space Tango, had verbally committed to fabricate the starting gate and that several contractors had expressed interest in donating dirt and labor; presenters emphasized these commitments were currently verbal and that they would not solicit donations until land access is approved.

County magistrates asked logistical questions about footprint, parking and public access. Presenters said the core track would fit in about 4.5 acres (parking not included) and that the facility would be open to the public when not reserved for events. Races and organized practices would use USA BMX membership and waivers; presenters said USA BMX provides event support, liability coverage for sanctioned events, marketing and about $7,500 in design work in kind.

Parks Director Rich Pickter said the parks board had reviewed and approved the proposed area for use, and discussed a likely maintenance arrangement in which Bluegrass Berms would manage events while the parks department would assist with routine upkeep. Pickter also noted plans for beginner leagues, loaner bikes and camps to broaden access.

After questions, Judge Executive read a motion to "contingently approve proceeding with this concept for a BMX park at the Woodford County Farm property" and to authorize continued negotiations; the motion, moved and seconded, passed unanimously.

Next steps include drafting a memorandum of understanding to clarify maintenance responsibilities, event management and liability coverage, and obtaining any required permits; presenters said they will seek written commitments for material donations after land use permission is finalized. The court did not authorize any county funding for construction at this meeting.