A future indoor BMX track and skatepark proposed for the Des Moines metro should be located at Merle Hay Mall or Southridge Mall, a new study found.
The feasibility study, released Saturday at the Iowa Bicycle Coalition Bike Banquet, recommends building a $26.3 million, "all-in-one" skateboard and BMX building that would include a 1,000-foot racing track, seating for up to 1,500 spectators, a 15,000-square-foot skatepark with seating for up to 500 spectators, concessions, and a skate and BMX pro shop. It foresees such an adventure sports complex becoming a destination for people driving hours to the Des Moines metro from every direction.
But while organizers said they think things have been moving fast since fundraising for the study started in February, there are still years of talks and more fundraising ahead.
Luke Hoffman, executive director of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, said there will likely be three to five years of capital campaigning. And during that time, there are conversations to be had with cities and other stakeholders, including property owners, and grants to secure, he said.