Council approves $335,000 increase to add beginner adaptive loop to Clyde Blend Park pump track

The City Council approved a staff request to expand the scope of the Clyde Blend Park BMX pump track to include an entry‑level adaptive loop intended for beginners and first‑time riders. Assistant Parks Director Richard Joaquin told council staff discovered during on‑site work that the adaptive section built to plan functioned at an intermediate level and did not provide a true beginner experience. Constructing an entry‑level loop now avoids higher costs and delays that would come from treating it as a separate future capital project.

Staff recommended a $335,000 appropriation from park neighborhood impact fees (no general fund impact) to increase the project budget and contingency. The added work would shift full completion from spring to summer but may allow phased openings of the intermediate and advanced areas earlier so the community can use portions of the track while final work is completed.

Council discussed risk and scheduling and sought assurances staff will prioritize open‑able sections for summer recreation. Staff and the parks director said the addition is feasible, includes contingency for unforeseen conditions, and likely can be phased so parts of the facility are available sooner. The council voted to increase the project budget and contingency and authorized the city manager to execute change orders up to the revised contingency limit.