GLADSTONE, Mich. (WZMQ) – A Delta County organization is expanding recreation opportunities at the John & Melissa Besse Sports Park in Gladstone.
Gladstone’s City Commission has approved a proposal from Delta County Non-Motorized Trails (DCNT), a nonprofit, to add a multi-use trail to the Besse Sports Park.
“This area is City property, and we can develop it and do things with the City’s blessing,” explained DCNT President Charles Shurlow. “We already do some cross-country ski trails. We’re adding three miles of non-motorized trails, which would be mountain biking.”
The trail will consist of a single-track loop along the park’s perimeter, as well as a pump track and skills turnout for beginners. Shurlow says the trail will provide a new way for guests to enjoy the park.
“This area attracts a number of children, kids, families,” he said. “There’s the frisbee park, the skills park for the kids, and then the pickleball courts. It’s centrally located. It’s close to the schools. There’s quite a few residential areas right around here.”
While the primary goal of the new bike trail is to cater to locals, the addition could bring some new traffic.
“We do want people to stop here and stay in Gladstone, do outdoor activities, spend their money at the restaurants and downtown area, and help build up this area,” said Shurlow.
A three-mile trail is a big undertaking, so DCNT hopes to utilize volunteer equipment to create the path. Although it depends on how much work can be completed that way, the project is estimated to cost around $300,000. The nonprofit is not seeking any funds from the City.
“We can do some of it ourselves,” Shurlow said. “We’re going to try to go along those parallel paths and then look for outside funding. We can get some grant money, possibly. Those take time. If we want to accomplish this quickly, then maybe with company sponsorship or individual sponsorship.”
Now, the work of applying for and securing that funding begins. DCNT aims to clear a path for the trail this spring.
“We are providing more outdoor activities where families can do them together and just enjoy this great outdoors,” said Shurlow. “That’s why we live up here.”
To volunteer to help with the project, supply equipment, or get involved another way, reach out to someone on the Delta County Non-Motorized Trails Facebook page. Sponsorship opportunities are available at dcntrails.org.
