WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo has announced a $4.7 million grant to the Mylan Park Foundation to support construction of the Mylan Park Regional BMX Facility. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.
According to the press release, the grant will be matched with $1.2 million in local funds and is expected to create 80 jobs, retain two jobs and generate another $1.2 million in private investment.
“President Biden’s American Rescue Plan delivers federal resources to communities to ensure our nation not only recovers from the pandemic, but builds a better America for the future,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This project will boost tourism and outdoor recreation in Morgantown while providing economic stability for the region.”
“That’s all good news for the continuation of events going on up at Mylan Park,” Monongalia County commissioner Sean Sikora said.
For the last several months USA BMX, Action Sports Design, Ascend West Virginia, the Youth Cycling Coalition and Mylan Park officials have been working on the track and design. The result will be the first barrier free track of it’s type.
It will be the only BMX track in the country that will have full access to all individuals, including people that have mobility challenges,” Sikora said.
“The travel and tourism industry is an important part of many local economies across the country,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will allow Morgantown to build on existing outdoor recreation assets to create new economic opportunity and jobs.”
The addition continues to diversify the park offerings that include education, food preparation, all types of recreation, aquatics and capacity for large events.
“It will bring opportunities for all of our citizens, including the handicapped and those less fortunate,” Sikora said. ” So, it’s a good thing for the overall community.”
There is no timetable for construction.