Nederland Pump Track

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Consultation has concluded

The Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Advisory Board (PROSAB) is seeking to develop a pump track at Chipeta Park between the basketball court and parking lot. The location was initially proposed by Parks Director Nicki Dunn, and has been examined by expert pump track installation company American Ramp Company, who determined that this would be a suitable location for a pump track.

Proposed Pump Track Area

Pump Track Size: 10-15k square feet of track surface
What: UCI standards asphalt pump track that can be used to host official events, usable by all wheel types
Upfront Cost: $200-500k depending on design features and budgetary capacity
Maintenance Plan: Maintenance is minimal, requiring only native grass maintenance similar to what already exists at this location, and occasional asphalt patch work. Ongoing asphalt maintenance estimated at $1,000/year

Benefits of a Pump Track

PROSAB has highlighted a few reasons as to why Nederland would benefit from having a local pump track:

  • A pump track in Nederland would provide an enjoyable recreational outlet for both young and old. The track would offer a safe and fun way to exercise, while providing a great opportunity for families to spend time together.
  • A pump track in Nederland would also help boost the local economy. The track could attract tourists from other areas, who would spend money in the local restaurants, stores, and hotels. This would help create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
  • A pump track is an inclusive facility to anything with wheels including but not limited to: skateboards, bikes, scooters, wheelchairs, and more!
  • A pump track in Nederland would help to improve the overall quality of life in the area. It would give residents a safe and enjoyable way to exercise, while also providing a great way to socialize and build relationships, and provide another way for young people to spend constructive time outdoors.

PROSAB has presented the proposal of developing a pump track at Chipeta Park to the Sustainability Advisory Bard, Youth Advocacy and Advisory Board, and Board of Trustees, who have all supported the project and offered their recommendations of approval.

When offering his support, Mayor Billy did encourage the committee to explore other bids for the design of the pump track as well as other locations where the track could be developed. PROSAB will be evaluating other bids. However, since a thorough review of possible pump track locations occurred prior to the development of their proposal, PROSAB does not feel additional work is needed regarding the location of the pump track, and therefore will be sticking with the recommendation of Chipeta Park.

Financial Considerations

Upfront costs for a pump track range from $200k - $500k, depending on design features and budgetary capacity. This includes considerations such as total square footage, landscaping selection (sod, rubberized pavement, turf), the amount of wall rides/other incorporated features, the density of the track, and any extra work that may need to be included (such as environmental studies of the area).

Based on these considerations, three estimated budgets were proposed:


Option 1 (High)Option 2 (Medium)Option 3 (Small)
Design Budget$15,000$10.500$9,000*
Construction Budget$500,000$350,000$250,000**
Approximate Square Footage15,000 - 17,500 Sq Ft10,500 - 12,000 Sq Ft7,500 - 8,500 Sq Ft

*This is the minimum cost threshold for all designs which have a construction budget of $300,000 or less.
**It is not recommended to budget less than $250,000 for construction, as anything lower falls into the standard budget range for a kid's/beginner pump track, which would have a smaller overall size (~5,000-6,500 sq ft) and less amenities.

Estimated sales tax impact from park upgrades near the business district
According to the Nederland Downtown Development Authority Master Plan from 2017, the creation of a public park near the business district in Nederland, CO could have several economic benefits, including an estimated increase in sales tax revenue for the business district.

The pump track would be approaching 0.5 acres of developed amenity and can be estimated to generate roughly $12,500 in additional sales tax revenue annually in perpetuity.

The Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Advisory Board (PROSAB) is seeking to develop a pump track at Chipeta Park between the basketball court and parking lot. The location was initially proposed by Parks Director Nicki Dunn, and has been examined by expert pump track installation company American Ramp Company, who determined that this would be a suitable location for a pump track.

Proposed Pump Track Area

Pump Track Size: 10-15k square feet of track surface
What: UCI standards asphalt pump track that can be used to host official events, usable by all wheel types
Upfront Cost: $200-500k depending on design features and budgetary capacity
Maintenance Plan: Maintenance is minimal, requiring only native grass maintenance similar to what already exists at this location, and occasional asphalt patch work. Ongoing asphalt maintenance estimated at $1,000/year

Benefits of a Pump Track

PROSAB has highlighted a few reasons as to why Nederland would benefit from having a local pump track:

  • A pump track in Nederland would provide an enjoyable recreational outlet for both young and old. The track would offer a safe and fun way to exercise, while providing a great opportunity for families to spend time together.
  • A pump track in Nederland would also help boost the local economy. The track could attract tourists from other areas, who would spend money in the local restaurants, stores, and hotels. This would help create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
  • A pump track is an inclusive facility to anything with wheels including but not limited to: skateboards, bikes, scooters, wheelchairs, and more!
  • A pump track in Nederland would help to improve the overall quality of life in the area. It would give residents a safe and enjoyable way to exercise, while also providing a great way to socialize and build relationships, and provide another way for young people to spend constructive time outdoors.

PROSAB has presented the proposal of developing a pump track at Chipeta Park to the Sustainability Advisory Bard, Youth Advocacy and Advisory Board, and Board of Trustees, who have all supported the project and offered their recommendations of approval.

When offering his support, Mayor Billy did encourage the committee to explore other bids for the design of the pump track as well as other locations where the track could be developed. PROSAB will be evaluating other bids. However, since a thorough review of possible pump track locations occurred prior to the development of their proposal, PROSAB does not feel additional work is needed regarding the location of the pump track, and therefore will be sticking with the recommendation of Chipeta Park.

Financial Considerations

Upfront costs for a pump track range from $200k - $500k, depending on design features and budgetary capacity. This includes considerations such as total square footage, landscaping selection (sod, rubberized pavement, turf), the amount of wall rides/other incorporated features, the density of the track, and any extra work that may need to be included (such as environmental studies of the area).

Based on these considerations, three estimated budgets were proposed:


Option 1 (High)Option 2 (Medium)Option 3 (Small)
Design Budget$15,000$10.500$9,000*
Construction Budget$500,000$350,000$250,000**
Approximate Square Footage15,000 - 17,500 Sq Ft10,500 - 12,000 Sq Ft7,500 - 8,500 Sq Ft

*This is the minimum cost threshold for all designs which have a construction budget of $300,000 or less.
**It is not recommended to budget less than $250,000 for construction, as anything lower falls into the standard budget range for a kid's/beginner pump track, which would have a smaller overall size (~5,000-6,500 sq ft) and less amenities.

Estimated sales tax impact from park upgrades near the business district
According to the Nederland Downtown Development Authority Master Plan from 2017, the creation of a public park near the business district in Nederland, CO could have several economic benefits, including an estimated increase in sales tax revenue for the business district.

The pump track would be approaching 0.5 acres of developed amenity and can be estimated to generate roughly $12,500 in additional sales tax revenue annually in perpetuity.

Consultation has concluded

  • Board of Trustees Approves Pump Track Design Funding

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    During their August 1st meeting, the Board of Trustees approved Resolution 2023-36, which authorizes $30,000 for Nederland Downtown Development Authority Projects, including $10,000 for the design of a pump track at Chipeta Park.

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  • Pump Track Project at Chipeta Park: A Community - Driven Initiative

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    An open letter from the Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Advisory Board regarding the Nederland Pump Track Project:

    The Town of Nederland, Colorado, is enthusiastically exploring the possibility of adding a neighborhood pump track - a specially designed circuit for cyclists to ride without pedaling, relying on momentum and body movements to navigate a series of berms and rollers. This endeavor is being led by a group of local enthusiasts, including members of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Advisory Board (PROSAB), who have diligently evaluated several potential locations for this innovative outdoor facility.

    The sites under review included the Rink/Tennis complex, Moose Meadows, Wingate Property, Big Springs Park, and Chipeta Park. This analysis culminated in the selection of a little-used area between the parking lot and the paved basketball court at Chipeta Park as the optimal choice, considering factors such as central location, available parking, and existing infrastructure.

    Foremost, let's address some key concerns: The funds required for the construction of the pump track will be sourced through a comprehensive fundraising campaign, not from the town's existing budget. We're glad to share that the initiative has already garnered strong public support, represented by over 180 petition signatures, positive votes from PROSAB and other boards, and endorsements from the Nederland Downtown Development Authority (NDDA).

    Situated centrally in Nederland, Chipeta Park is easily accessible and is in close proximity to several key town assets such as the skatepark, other play features at the park, the medical clinic, and the downtown area, which hosts restaurants, shops, and more. This makes it an ideal location that ensures equitable accessibility for children, teens, and adults alike, while also offering various recreational opportunities for guardians.

    Ample parking space at Chipeta Park, which cannot be found at the Wingate Property or Big Springs Park, ensures smooth visitor movement. Additionally, being a developed playground, Chipeta Park aligns well with the pump track's purpose, augmenting the park's appeal as a recreational hub for our community.

    Chipeta Park, the only potential location within the NDDA District, offers the possibility of DDA funding, which isn't applicable for the other proposed sites. Furthermore, the creation of a pump track in the park provides an opportunity to enhance the park's aesthetic appeal through meticulous planning and design.

    Addressing potential concerns, some citizens worry about changes in bird patterns and the impact on the limited, open green space at Chipeta. We want to assure our community members that the project's design and planning will prioritize the preservation of bird habitats and the park's serenity. The pump track will not impede the multi-use open green space near the pavilion or most of the green space in Chipeta. The area where the pump track is proposed is the section of Chipeta Park where there is no irrigation, and subsequently, no maintained grass. We're engaging in collaborative efforts with environmentalists and park designers to mitigate any disruptions and have researched examples of other Colorado pump tracks that have successfully addressed similar concerns.

    In conclusion, given the easy access, available parking, potential for funding assistance, and the chance to further enrich a beloved community space, Chipeta Park is the ideal location for the Nederland Pump Track. Parks Department and other stakeholders are aligned with this choice. We're committed to maintaining an open dialogue as we move forward with this project, ensuring it brings maximum benefit to our community.

    Sincerely,
    Sam Ovett, PROSAB Vice President


    Next Steps:

    With Chipeta Park being the identified location for the pump track, the next step in the process is to work with a consultant to design a pump track that will fit the location and take into consideration everything that has been outlined in this letter. The NDDA approved funding up to $10,000 for a pump track design at their April 12, 2023 meeting. The NDDA will be presenting the resolution to release the funds at the August 1, 2023 Board of Trustees (BOT) meeting. Once the resolution has been approved, the NDDA will contract with American Ramp Company to design a pump track at Chipeta Park. When the design is complete, PROSAB and the Parks Department will present it to the community as well as the advisory boards and commissions for additional feedback. Once the final design has been approved, there will be a public hearing before the BOT prior to the issuance of a building permit as required under the Nederland Municipal Code.

    Contact Us:
    If you have any questions about the pump track or next steps, please contact PROSAB at prosab@nederlandco.org.

    You can also learn more about pump tracks at https://sites.google.com/view/pump-track-nederland-co/ned-pump-track?authuser=0

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  • Funding from the Nederland Downtown Development Authority

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    In April 2023, the Nederland Downtown Development Authority (NDDA) approved funding for the design and engineering of the pump track up to $10,000. In the presentation to the NDDA, PROSAB focused on how the pump track advances the goals outlined in the NDDA Master Plan:

    • The plan recognizes that parks and open spaces are essential components of a vibrant downtown area, and they can help attract residents, visitors, and businesses.
    • The plan proposes the creation of a "civic plaza" as a central gathering place for the community, which would include green spaces, seating areas, and pedestrian walkways.
    • The plan suggests developing the Barker Reservoir area as a recreational hub that would include a park and trails for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
    • The plan recommends improving the existing parks in the downtown area, including Chipeta Park, and expanding them to include more amenities and programming.
    • The plan identifies the need for public art installations and cultural events in parks to help promote the town's unique character and attract visitors.
    • The plan highlights the importance of sustainability and green infrastructure, including the creation of green spaces and park, in mitigating the impacts of climate change and enhancing the town's resilience.

    Overall, the master plan recognizes the value of public parks and open spaces in creating a vibrant and sustainable downtown area, and it includes several recommendations for their creation and improvement.

    While the plan does not specifically mention a bicycle pump track in Chipeta Park, it does support the creation of more recreational opportunities in parks and the expansion of existing parks to include more amenities and programming. Therefore, it's possible that the creation of a bicycle pump track in Chipeta Park could align with the goals and strategies outlined in the plan.

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