Learn More Tonight about Stafford Lake Bike Park

The Stafford Lake Bike Park seems to be on a very fast downhill run of momentum heading into Monday night’s design development meeting in Novato.

It’s been almost two months since the Marin County Board of Supervisors approved the park’s master plan and adopted the associated environmental documents, which means county parks planners could move forward with construction and fundraising. The facility will be the first of its kind in Marin.

Steve Petterle, the county’s principal park planner, is working closely with Nat Lopes from Hilride Progression Development Group, who is serving as lead designer for the off-road biking facility at just west of Novato.

At Monday’s meeting — 7 p.m. at the — the planners will give one more opportunity for avid riders to provide feedback on the park’s initial design.

“We are thrilled to have a bike park coming to Stafford Lake,” wrote Novato Patch reader Denise Rosenbach. “This will serve a diversity of people — from young children to recreational riders to high school bike racers to semi-pros to pros. Look at the growth of mountain bike riding/racing and the impact it has had, especially on our teenagers.  … They show respect to their environment as their passion for riding is strong.  It is essential that we all consider the importance of this park, particularly, the outdoor freedom  that bicycles offer to people of all ages. “

Michael Dinga used to ride with the San Marin High mountain bike team, as did his daughter. “I'm an avid trail rider and can't wait to try out the new park,” he wrote.

The park’s highly varied features, depending on a rider’s skill level, will make this a special recreational site, said Craig Anderson, coach of both the Novato High and San Marin High mountain biking teams.

“This is something the biking community has been asking for years,” Anderson said. “It’s not a substitution for access to narrow trails, but it’s a great step forward by the county to provide a top-level park for riders of all ages and skill levels to enjoy. This park will pull in riders from outside Marin. It’s that big of a deal for cyclists to have access to an area like this.”

Rider Brad Curtis said it will be great to have another option when it comes to sports facilities close to home.

“There is a growing trend toward expanding sports activities beyond baseball, football and basketball,” he said. “Soccer and lacrosse are good examples, and we need to support families that seek alternatives like hiking, skating and kayaking.”

Petterle said there would be countless opportunities for riders and other bike park supporters to volunteer or help with fundraising efforts. Check the website for details.