The NY cycling community has a great, once in a lifetime opportunity before us – a world class velodrome in Brooklyn is a very real possibility. This past spring, there was an announcement that Josh Rechnitz, a long time CRCA member and philanthropist committed substantial funding for a fieldhouse and velodrome to be constructed in Brooklyn as part of Brooklyn Bridge Park.
In order for this opportunity to be realized,however, the Brooklyn Bridge Park must approve the proposed fieldhouse/velodrome. There has been some community opposition, however, with concerns raised about parking, impact on the neighborhood, and whether a velodrome is an appropriate facility.
There is a meeting on this coming Monday in Brooklyn and it’s important to have a show of support by the cycling community to counter the presence of the vocal minority that has adopted a NIMBY attitude.
The meeting on Monday is run by the Brooklyn Bridge Park Community Advisory Council and begins at 6:30 PM at 334 Furman Street (at the foot of Joralemon Street) in Brooklyn. Although the Council does not have a formal vote on the Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Community Advisory Council is a recommending body.
Monday’s meeting is not a public hearing, but there will be a presentation describing the fieldhouse and velodrome. Opponents are likely to be likely be out in full force. There will be reporters present at the meeting and it is critical that the Council and media see support for this project.
The NY cycling community’s support of this project is critical at a time where the members of the community who have been opposed have been the loudest voice.
Thank you for your support.