Misconceptions are floating over the Penticton BMX Club since their track relocation was approved by the City of Penticton.
President Andrew Bayston wants to clear that up, especially what will be ripping around the track.
“BMX stands for bicycle moto cross. It has nothing to do with dirt bikes or engines at all,” said Bayston. “It’s children (with the exception of some older riders) on pedal bikes. That’s the only thing that will be up there. There won’t be any motorized vehicles.”
There also seems to be concern with regards to having camping on their nine-acre site. Once a year the club can apply to the city for a one or two-day pass for national races that would allow visiting riders and their families to camp on the site. Bayston stressed there is no official campground where they will be located. As well, the land they are using is flat with no vegetation and they have no intentions of disturbing existing vegetation or any of the natural surroundings. The club will only be building on the open flat space. He also said the track will be aesthetically attractive with no high end noise.
With racing twice a week, “kids laughter is about all you are going to hear,” said Bayston.
They also have water facilities for potable water and washrooms.
Another issue is with dust. To control that, the club plans to use natural tree sap, which will compact the soil. When they do track maintenance, weeds, or anything else. They won’t be using any pesticides. At their current location by Lion’s Park, they use vinegar to kill weeds and will continue that.
Bayston also said the facility is open to the public when not in use by the club for sanctioned events. Fencing will be put in place to keep it enclosed and dirt bikes are not to be used. The new track will also be connected to the KVR trail and will provide access for people on mountain bikes to cross over. The Penticton Area Cycling Association could also have a skills park for mountain bikers as well.
Penticton city council had a brief discussion during its meeting April 7 that stemmed from a recommendation from the Agriculture Land Committee (ALC), which was asked to provide their input on the BMX park relocation. Their recommendation mirrors what had already been discussed by council and will be forwarded to the ALC for review. Once feedback from the ALC is received, a public hearing on the matter will be scheduled. Bayston said he hoped they could start building the track on May 1, but that won’t happen until the hearing takes place.
The club is having an open house at Lions Park Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a barbecue and races. He encouraged anyone with concerns to stop by, saying it would be a great time to discuss the issues. He also said the club could be contacted by email at bmxpenticton@gmail.com.