In the July 19, 2022 City Council meeting funding was approved to develop a 30% design to locate the Mercer Island Bike Skills Area in Deane’s Children’s Park. This is the first step in developing a design that will facilitate future public engagement. The following milestones have been shared as the desired timeline:

• Fall 2022 – present 30% design to Parks & Recreation Commission for review and feedback
• Early 2023 – present Parks & Recreation Commission recommended 30% design to City Council
• Spring 2023 – design developed, construction project goes to bid
• Late spring 2023 – construction begins

Of course, these timelines can change as the process proceeds, but it is great to see committed funding to enable the initial design. Deane’s Children’s Park was the location determined and recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission. The location for the Bike Skills Area is intended to be generally in the area of the former Adventure Playground. The Mercer Island Mountain Biking Advocates engaged a local trail designer and validated that the space can provide a great space for a Bike Skills Area. We are sad to see the end of the Bike Skills Area in Upper Luther Burbank Park, but we are looking forward to working together to provide a sustainable Bike Skills Area on Mercer Island. We can expect opportunities to engage in the design process this fall. Until then go ride your bike.