RIVERSPORT OKC announces a new hub for cyclists

RIVERSPORT OKC has announced plans for a $1.4 million Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park project to coincide with the city’s recent expansion of its trail system. Once completed, cyclists will be able to make a 45-mile loop around Oklahoma City on paved trails, in addition to mountain bike trails and jump lines.  

The city recently began construction on trails near the Boathouse District as part of its Better Streets, Safer City initiative. The 10-year, $967 million bond package, approved in 2017, invests in streets, parks and more to help improve citizens’ quality of life. 

“Biking is one of the most accessible ways for people to enjoy the outdoors,” Executive Director of RIVERSPORT, Mike Knopp said. 

Renderings of Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park.

RIVERSPORT will now add to these investments with its Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park. Serving as a hub for the city trails currently running through the Boathouse District, the new trailhead and bike park will connect to the Katy Trail to the east. A new bike plaza, outdoor classroom, community garden and play area are planned to be included in the expansion project. A welcome center, nature center and Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA-compliant restrooms will be a part of the gathering space designed with shipping containers. 

“With this expansion, we’re able to provide the amenities that really make the trails work such as accessible restrooms, drinking fountains and refillable water bottle stations, plenty of shade and seating for rest stops, and a place where you can do minor bike repairs,” he said. 

In addition to the amenities included inside the shipping containers, an elevated trail will travel across the top of them.

“We always enjoy doing something that elevates a project, and, in this case, we took it quite literally and are putting a trail on top of the shipping containers. When we combine the city’s trails with our mountain bike trails and the world-class Velosolutions pump track, we really have a unique experience for cyclists at all levels,” Knopp said.  

The elevated experience will be visible from vehicles passing by, positioned at the intersection of interstates 35 and 40. 

The new Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park is being funded by a grant from the Oklahoma Recreational Trails Program, the Oklahoma City Community Foundation and anonymous donors.  

The project was designed by Allford, Hall, Monaghan, Morris. 

For more information on what is happening at RIVERSPORT OKC, visit www.riversportokc.org.