Skate parks get all the attention, and funding. That’s according to Alpine Bike Parks, a company that just launched ParkStart, a design tool package for planning and building bike parks. The program helps park planners come up with a plan and budget to take to City Hall, or other authority, for approval.
For $3,600, park planners can start using the ParkStart Guide.
- The ParkStart Guide
- Project Startup Consulting
- Online Design Charrette – where the community can get involved in the comment and planning process
- Concept Site Plan (which includes two revisions)
- Custom Artist’s Renderings
- Valmont Bike Park Design/Construction Standards
- Facebook Page and Twitter Feed for the Bike Park
- Cost Estimates for Design and Construction
- Next Steps Guide
Alpine Bike Parks put the package together with the experience it’s gathered working on projects with IMBA, IMBA Trail Solutions, UK Forest Enterprise, Florida State Greenways Commission, and Seven Springs Ski Resort. The company has also worked with local communities such as the cities of San Francisco; Fort Bragg, CA; Elk Grove, CA; Boulder, CO; Park City, UT, Hailey, ID; Ketchum, ID; and New York City, among other locals.
The final product includes a presentation and budget that planners can take to the authorities that will approve funding and groundbreaking on a park.
ParkStart providers Alpine Bike Parks feel that bike parks are seen as a niche amenity designed on a low budget while skate parks often get public funding to complete. Bike parks are often constructed with donated equipment, free dirt, tacked-togethr trail features, minimalistic design and volunteer labor. The company believes there is demand, and that properly constructed bike parks are easier to maintain and enjoy.