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Charlemont mountain bikers propose pump track at fairgrounds; commission voices unanimous support
Summary
Four local mountain bike advocates presented a plan Dec. 11 for a permanent pump track at the Charlemont fairgrounds; the Parks & Recreation Commission expressed unanimous support and will await further design and funding details. Presenters estimated the cost at $50,000 or less and said maintenance would be handled by the group.
Four members of the local mountain bike community presented a plan to the Charlemont Parks & Recreation Commission on Dec. 11 to build a permanent pump track on the fairgrounds, and the commission said it supports further development of the project.
The presenters described the pump track as a series of hollows and berms designed to teach critical mountain-biking skills, likening it to a playground for beginner riders. They said the facility would be free to the public, would allow e‑bikes restricted to speeds under 20 mph, and would be considered a low‑risk feature covered by routine insurance. Presenters estimated the project would cost “$50,000 or less,” to be paid for by donations, and said the presenting group would retain responsibility for ongoing maintenance and provide a maintenance plan to the commission. They also requested that signage be included in the design and said they would seek assistance from the New England Mountain Bike Association.
The Charlemont Parks & Recreation Commission expressed unanimous support for the concept and asked the presenting group to return with more detailed plans, cost breakdowns and a maintenance plan. Commissioners did not take a formal vote to authorize construction or to allocate funds during the meeting; rather, they signaled agreement with the proposal and said they would await further development information from the presenters.
The proposal is still in a planning phase: presenters and commissioners did not specify a funding timeline or a construction schedule. The commission did not adopt any ordinance, warrant article, or contract at this meeting; any future formal approvals, permitting or funding decisions would be set at a later date when more detailed materials are provided to the commission.
The meeting also noted several routine items under old business: trailer storage on commission property is full and all units must be removed by April 15, 2025; commissioners said they will request security cameras for the grounds; and the commission plans to write a warrant for roof repair in the spring. The commission approved the previous meeting’s minutes (motion by Commissioner Bill Harker, second by Commissioner Neil Neuhauser) and adjourned at 7:10 p.m. after a motion by Commissioner Bill Harker and seconded by Commissioner Neil Neuhauser.
