Central Iowa cyclists set sights on massive indoor BMX facility

bmx rendering

While cycling and BMX are popular activities in the Des Moines metro area, it can be hard to enjoy when harsh winter weather shows up. That could change in the next few years as local cycling enthusiasts push for an indoor BMX facility.

On Wednesday at the 80/35 outdoor BMX track, the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, along with other area cycling groups, announced a new funding campaign for the first phase of the project, which is conducting a feasibility study to determine the location needs and construction costs.

bmx rendering

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The feasibility study by CSL International, out of Minneapolis, will cost $47,000, of which the groups have raised $16,000 so far, according to Bobby Kennedy, member of the West Des Moines Bicycle Advisory Commission.

The rough estimate for the new facility is expected to be around $6 million, Iowa Bicycle Coalition Executive Director Luke Hoffman said.

The feasibility study will take about six months and will examine locations, economic impact and total cost. He said he expects the organizers will do a capital campaign for a couple of years to raise all the funds needed for the project.

Plans for the indoor facility include a BMX race track with spectator seating, dirt jumps, mountain bike skills park, a pump track, concessions and a community bike shop with a meeting space, Kennedy said. Preliminary renderings have been drawn up by Neumann Monson Architects.

“This should be a facility that provides physical amenities and educational opportunities,” Hoffman said.

Donations can be made online at 80/35 BMX’s website or at the Iowa Bicycle Coalition’s website.

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