Langford’s Jordie Lunn Bike Park is in a constant state of evolution, with new trails steadily being built and existing runs refined, but this year promises to bring some of the most significant upgrades since the ‘gravity zone’ opened last year.
Regular visitors to the mountain bike park will no doubt have noticed construction in the park parking lot on the upcoming clubhouse over the past few months, and the city is now able to say the facility is expected to open in early September.
“Exciting just really doesn’t do it,” said Mayor Scott Goodmanson. “When you have a facility like the park that can attract top-level riders all the way down to beginners and let them interact with each other, which they do, that does so much for the sport.”
Construction on the building has been going well, and the project has managed to stay on time despite a challenging construction environment, said a city staff spokesperson.
READ MORE: New trails open, clubhouse in the works at Jordie Lunn Bike Park
Once complete, the clubhouse is set to feature a cafe, bike shop with repair services, and office space for both Cycling B.C. and Cycling Canada.
That partnership with two major cycling organizations is also expected to bring a unique opportunity for community members looking to dip their toes in the often cost-prohibitive sport.
Langford staff said a plan is being finalized which, if successful, will see a fleet of mountain bikes available for rentals at the park.
“I think it will serve anyone who wants to have a meal or a drink, look at the view, and interact with those around them. Think of golf courses,” said Goodmanson. “They often have public restaurants, and you may never want to hit a ball in your life, but you are happy to sit on a patio and have something to eat or drink and watch people play. This has the potential to bring in not only the active users of the park but also people who just want to walk somewhere and have a snack.”
Now entering its third season, staff said the park has been getting rave reviews from riders who come from near and far to hit the trails. Rain or shine, seven days a week, the park is busy, helped by the year-round cycling weather in the region.
While the clubhouse will provide new opportunities for riders and the neighbouring Westhills neighbourhood, it is of course the trails which are the main draw for the park.
Staff said one new flow trail – Wildcat – has already opened this spring, and a volunteer-built trail is nearing completion. Wildcat, a blue-rated trail in the gravity zone is the longest in the park at just over one kilometre and features a mix of tabletop jumps, rollers, and large berms to make it fun for a wide skill range of riders.
Construction is also set to start on two more trails – one climbing trail and one descent trail – and the park’s hiking trails continue to expand as well.
READ MORE: Langford: A city for sports and recreation
@JSamanski
justin.samanski-langille@goldstreamgazette.com
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