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Donor offers $300,000 pump track for Buckley park; council raises maintenance and siting questions
Summary
A private proposal from Jalen Johansen of Johansen Construction would donate and install a paved bicycle 'pump track' near Buckley’s Veterans Memorial. Staff said construction is estimated at $300,000; council members pressed staff on maintenance, mower access, liability and whether the site precludes future commercial use.
Mayor Pro Tem Smith and city staff introduced a proposal on Dec. 3 for a donated pump track near the Veterans Memorial along the Foothills Trail. The donor, Jalen Johansen of Johansen Construction, told the council the project would create a flat, asphalt loop for bicycle pumping—distinct from the city’s skate park—and could attract riders and visitors to downtown.
City staff said the estimated installation and construction cost is $300,000 and that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) would be drafted between the city and Johansen for exclusive use of the parcel for a fixed term before any final agreement and legal review. Staff added the city estimates the cost of constructing a similar amenity through municipal procurement would be more than double the donor’s figure.
Council members voiced both support and practical concerns. One council member said the site is visible and adjacent to other youth facilities, and another said the pump track would be a “really cool addition.” But several council members asked whether the city’s existing mower equipment could service the banked, contoured surface and whether routine upkeep would add unsustainable maintenance workload given pressure on parks staff. Council member Bender said the proposed spot was “not a good spot” for the type of racing she and her family use, urging staff to consider sites nearer Miller Park instead.
Staff confirmed the parcel is roughly 1.3 acres and said alternative locations were discussed; they also noted the city’s park enhancement policy would apply to any donation and that legal fees would be required to draft an MOU. The city asked the council for a general consensus before instructing attorneys to prepare agreement language.
Next steps: staff said they will draft an MOU and bring it back to council for review, and that attorneys will prepare any required agreement once council indicates consensus; no formal motion or vote occurred at the study session.
