Multi-use pump track project moving ahead in Chatham

A multi-use recreational pump track planned for Chatham is moving ahead after Chatham-Kent council approved a donation agreement.

Councilors gave the green light recently to an agreement with Chatham Off-Road Biking Association (CORBA) to receive fundraised amounts of about $83,000.

This money was earmarked for construction of a community pump track on municipal land at 435 Grand Ave. W. in Chatham, with Clarke Construction Inc. doing the work.

A pump track is a circuit of rollers, banked turns and other features, designed to be ridden by riders “pumping,” or generating momentum by up-and-down body movements, rather than pedalling or pushing.

Over the last few months, CORBA has surveyed the local neighborhood and properties abutting the site.

The project also has been reviewed with Chatham-Kent YMCA, which is “in full support as it complements existing programming and creates new opportunities,” and will let riders use its washrooms and water fountains, a municipal staff report said.

CORBA has worked with Chatham-Kent staff and a third-party designer on a concept drawing of a site that will challenge younger riders and let more advanced riders enhance their skills.

Staffand CORBA reps reviewed and visited asphalt pump tracks, in Windsor, Stratford, Brantford, Ingersoll and elsewhere, to determine best practices in design, size and possible use and maintenance challenges.

The project has won support from sponsors, including ENGIE ($30,000); Chatham-Kent Community Foundation/South Kent Wind Farm ($20,000) and the Rotary Club of Chatham ($3,000), and a $10,000 Together CK grant.

“The remaining. . . $77,000 was anticipated as in-kind contributions from the community,” the report said. “Additionally, Clarke Construction Inc. approached the CORBA group stating they would like to assist with building . . . and will donate the remaining labor and materials.”

The estimated total cost of the project is $140,000, with construction set for this summer.

Estimated annual operating costs of $4,000, and annual lifecycle funding of $5,000, were approved during the last municipal budget process.

CORBA recommended calling the park the Thamesview Pump Track, honoring the old Thamesview Lodge, which was located across the street from the track site.

Chatham-Kent’s commemorative naming policy lets groups that raise at least 25 per cent of the cost of an asset choose its name. Project donors will be recognized on track signs.

The Chatham Scooter Festival group also has helped seek grants.

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