A new bike park in Santa Clarita is already facing delays — before it even opens. At the Haskell Canyon Open Space Bike Park, city officials say unauthorized riders have been entering the construction area.
We’ve had people out there on dirt bikes and on electric bikes, which, of course, is not what the course is made for, and also, unauthorized bikes are not permitted in any of the city’s open spaces,” said Carrie Lujan, Spokesperson for the City of Santa Clarita.
“So, besides the fact that it’s causing damage, it’s just generally not allowed.”
Despite posted signs warning people to stay out, officials say the activity is damaging the site. Unauthorized access is not only unsafe but also slows progress on a project meant for the community.
“We’ve gotten so much media attention about it,” said Lujan.
“It’s going to be 720 acres with 15 miles of cross-country climbing, downhill slopes, all kinds of cool things that are already built out there, and I know our mountain bike community is really excited to get out there and try it.”
“We would like the dirt bike riders and the e-bike riders who are out there to please not do that in the bike park so that we can open as soon as possible for those who want to use it for its intended purpose.”
Until the project is finished, officials are urging the public to respect closures so the park can open safely and on time.
“We’re fortunate to live in Santa Clarita, where we are surrounded by nearly 50,000 acres of open space available for hiking, mountain bike riding, and just getting out and exploring the beautiful valley that we live in,” said Lujan.
“It’s really going to be a one-of-a-kind for our area, and we know that all kinds of people are excited about getting out there and testing their skills.”
