FVMBA & Abbotsford City Managers Meeting
On Thursday we (the FVMBA) had another meeting with the City of Abbotsford re: Ledgeview and MTB. Present were Andrew gower, Gary Harder (FVMBA President), Michael McAllister (the City's Lawyer), Gary Guthrie (the City Manager), Don Luymes (Manager of Community Planning - also the guy who is doing ALL of the develpment planning for McKee Peak/Ledgeview), Ron Myers - Parks Planner/Manager and Lynne Harris - Councillor. The big topic of discussion was the risk supporting a MTB facility puts on the city and how it can be mitigated. Michael went through his points, and what the city will have to do to keep their insurers happy. Basically, the following:
- Clear signage on all trails - including difficulty rating.
- Regular inspections of trails - this will be done with the assistance of the FVMBA.
- “Safetying” of trails - ya, some stunts will have to go.
- Mandatory helmet rules (I’ve only ever seen 2 guys with no helmets on Ledgeview)
We also discussed getting the City involved with helping us get a deal with the landowners on Ledgeview - no decision to intervene directly was made, but they are going to help us out a little. Unfortunately, given the delicate situation, there isn’t much they can do (and we aren’t in too big a position to ask as it is all private land).
Finally - given that some of the trails are already on City land - they are going to be “taken over”. What does that mean? Well, for one, hopefully some $$ for maintenance. Signs will appear on the lower sections of SOB and LeBiteme - and Lost Oakleys and Soft Taco will also be signed. These trails will also be inspected and “safetyed”. Don’t worry - they will still be challenging - the biggest thing we will have to provide is “go arounds” at all stunts - and any bridging that sucks will have to be replaced.
So - things are looking up for MTB in Abby - and the City is gonna help out!!! (we even talked about jump/skills parks - so keep your eyes open!)
