The City of Columbia is certainly not pumping the breaks on unveiling new and improved city parks.

Yesterday, Mayor Steve Benjamin + City Council members held a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Owens Field Pump Track (1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd.) with the Parks and Recreation Department to officially reveal the new pump track and improvements to the public space.

City of Columbia officials cutting the ribbon at Owens Field Pump Track | Photo via @CityofColumbia

The new playground + pump track are part of the City of Columbia Master Plan to make a positive impact for all Soda Citizens.

Are you familiar with pump tracks?

Pump tracks were originally designed in the 70s and 80s for mountain bikers + BMX riders as a looped track with mounds that maximizes your momentum and allows you to continuously ride without pedaling. They are now popular among both amateur + professional riders, and can be made of dirt, concrete, or asphalt.

What can you expect at your next visit to the Owens Field Pump Track?

Owens Field Pump Track | Photo via @CityofColumbia

Upon arrival at the 0.9 acre park, you will find accessible parking, and as you explore the park, there is seating, water fountains, bike repair stations, bike racks, trash and recycling receptacles, and updated landscaping.

Taking one lap around the asphalt pump track is approx. 0.2 miles, and riders can try out bern turns (made of composite wood and asphalt), wood roller corners, a-frames, and more.

Wanting to see it virtually first? Check out this Youtube video to learn more about all the pump track has to offer.