Events to raise funds for BI bike park

By Steven Powell • March 13, 2024 1:30 am

The Strawberry Hill Bike Park fund-raising campaign launches March 22-24 with a weekend of events.

Proceeds support construction of Bainbridge Island’s first bike park at Strawberry Hill Park for riders of all ages. The 8-acre bike park will feature 1.5 miles of riding trails with features such as jumps, flyovers and berms.

A skill-building area will welcome new riders or those honing their skills. A BI Parks & Trails Foundation news release says the key to the park’s design are “flyovers,” wooden overpasses that allow downhill riders to cross above other riders where two trails intersect, adding to rider safety while optimizing park space.

The foundation and BI Metro Park & Recreation District hope to break ground on the Bike Park this fall. The foundation is about halfway to the $450,000 fundraising goal.

“Bainbridge Island is a biking community that generously supports conservation and youth initiatives,” said Mary Meier, foundation executive director.

Events include:•March 22, Mountain Bike Film Fest, Historic Lynwood Theatre. A collection of films that showcase the impact trail building has on community and the joy of riding. Raffle prizes, bike park swag, beer and refreshments are part of the event. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 advance at www.bikestrawberry.org and at the door. Seating is limited.

•March 23, Shortcake Saturday at Strawberry Hill Park. All riders get to make their own custom SHBP Race Plate and enjoy strawberry shortcake. Registration required for all riders. No bike, no problem. Tour the Bike Park site (pre-registration required) and learn how you can help make the project happen. The event from 1-4 p.m. is free, but pre-register at www.bikestrawberry.org

•March 24, Sunday Fund-Day for Strawberry Hill Park at Eleven Winery. The winery is donating all tasting fees and glass pours, and 10% of bottle purchases, to the Bike Park project. Music by Ian Skavdal from 2-5 p.m., and pop-up pulled pork and brisket by Oink & Moo BBQ and fresh treats by CinnaRohls. Noon to 8 p.m. at 7671 NE Day Road W.