COUNTY – Reader Sondra Costa wrote in to let the community know there’s a very good chance a regional bike park could win $100,000 to build an extreme downhill mountain bike trail as part of the already open Exchequer Bike Park.
Bell Helmets is awarding $100,000 to fund a trailbuilding project, and online votes determine who gets the grant. The location in Madera could expand into Mariposa and is currently in the serious running. Voting ends Sunday.
“Mariposa is up for a 70-mile BMX bike trail grant from Bell Helmets,” explains Sandra. “The Mariposa location is one of only three west coast locations currently in the lead, but only by a few votes. Please share the link and information and help get a local outlet that families can enjoy for decades to come!”
In order to make your vote count, voters must vote, and then confirm the vote through an emailed link.
“You have to do the email follow up or it doesn’t count. Voting closes on April 26th. It doesn’t say Mariposa but it is the only California location.”
The Exchequer Mountain Bike Park is already open for riding in Merced, while still in the planning stages. It’s adjacent to Lake McClure at the Barrett Cover Recreation area and is said to include 700 acres. Once complete, Exchequer will have trails for all skill levels and abilities.
The Bell grant, if awarded, will be used to construct a double-black diamond trail, according to media reports. The idea for entering the competition for the Bell Helmets trail in Mariposa was sponsored by the Merced Irrigation District. According to Bell Helmets and organizers, the venue is envisioned as a “Bell Built trail” featuring a “handful of trails already in place,” with a gravity run to “challenge riders and offer panoramic views of the open terrain.”
Mountain biking is already super popular in the area, Sondra points out, adding that the addition of a new mountain bike trail would appeals to locals and visitors, alike.
“Hopefully this will help make the community even more desirable to visit!” Voting through Apr. 26 will determine the west coast finalist, and Exchequer is the only California contender.
For more information contact organizers and visit the Facebook page promoting the project.
