Parks and Rec Projects
ORV Riding Park - 35 Mile
Budget: N/A
Contractor: N/A
Estimated Completion:
Project Overview
The CBJ Parks and Recreation Department (P&R) worked for many years with community Off Road Vehicle (ORV) groups to understand interest in ORV riding opportunities. Over the past twenty years, riding areas have been redeveloped or regulations have changed to prohibit motorized use and there are few areas left to legally recreate in Juneau. CBJ has evaluated many sites for motorized use since the early 2000s and for various reasons, riding sites have not been established. Through the recent work with user groups, the 35 mile site was recognized as a feasible location for an ORV riding park. The process for establishing a riding park at this site included a general public meeting, support from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (PRAC) and the Lands, Housing and Economic Development Committee. The Planning Commission approved a Conditional Use Permit for the park on 565 acres in this area. The Assembly authorized creating an agreement with the Juneau Off-Road Association (JORA) to provide guidance, stewardship and assist with maintenance of the park. The first phases of construction of a parking lot and trails were authorized under a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers. Additionally, the State of Alaska Recreation Trails Program granted $300,000 for the initial construction of the trails.
Parks and Recreation and Trail Mix are leading the construction of the driveway, parking lot and initial trails currently. The site is not open for use yet. Construction will continue through 2024 with the goal of opening in late 2024 or 2025.
General questions about the project can be emailed to [email protected].