Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Westchester County.

(Mount Pleasant, NY) – This spring mountain bikers will have three new trails to practice their skills on at Graham Hills Park in Westchester County.

Since the discovery of an unauthorized trail last April, the County has worked with the Graham Hills Skill Park Committee to develop and construct a course that is safe yet challenging.

County Executive George Latimer said: “The mountain bike community at Graham Hills is passionate about their sport. When we learned they were interested in developing the skills area, we were happy to work with them to develop their ideas and move the project forward. Over the course of this project the committee has dedicated many hours to planning and construction, we thank them for their partnership.”

The unauthorized trail featured constructed jumps next to deep holes in an environmentally sensitive area of the park. Additionally, it encouraged young riders to cross the Saw Mill River Parkway in order to gain access.

The Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation identified a more suitable location for the trails next to the existing trail and parking lot entrance. County Parks then worked with Jim Dellavalle Designs and the Graham Hills Skills Park Committee to design new trails using proper techniques.

Commissioner of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Kathy O’Connor said: “This collaboration with the Graham Hills Skills Park Committee will undoubtedly enhance the experience of our mountain bikers while keeping safety as a top priority.”

Graham Hills Skill Park Committee Member Jaymeson Leo said: “We are so grateful to the County for giving a greenlight to this project, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Moving forward it will be a valuable addition to the park and community.”

To date volunteers from the Westchester Parks Foundation have placed more than half of the construction materials which were donated by Thalle Industries, R. Pugni and Sons, Ad Tec and Mandy Santucci.

Construction is currently halted due to snow, but will resume when the snow melts and the site is clear. The new trails are still on track to open spring 2021.