Building a trail packed with features is a time consuming affair, even with the mechanical help of a Sweco mini-dozer and ST-240 trail building machine to doing the bulk of the heavy lifting. Even after the shaping is done, each roller and berm needs to be compacted properly to result in the desired riding experience. Being the first trail experience of it’s kind here in the Bay Area, it’s expected to get a lot of use, especially once the word is out that it’s game on.
The entire trail has been roughed in except for the connector at the top. It’s a trail. Being the first in the area, it’s being held to some rather high standards as it serves to set the bar for those that will follow in its footsteps. At the time these photos, which were shot several days ago, everything was completely dry and loose. What is needed for a rideable trail is moisture, and hopefully the current precipitation is enough to get it done. At the moment construction has reached the final push, and project leader Jim Jacobson is thinking four more weekends of work and the trail could officially open.
Roughed in trail, awaiting moisture for compaction.
Four more weeks
However, this all depends on you/ me/ we/ us — the riders. At this point, the project needs bodies. The trail building machines have been put away, and the tampers and vibraplate and vibra-hammer are now the main tools in play.
At work with the vibra-hammer.
If you haven’t come out to be a part of this ground breaking project, consider coming out for a day. Every little bit helps. Volunteer turnout has been dropping, and a final push is needed to get it done, and then we can all get on our bikes and ride.
Spread the word- if you want to coordinate with crew leaders on the scene, the Facebook page is the best spot to get in touch. www.facebook.com/TAMOFLOW
Tamarancho Flow Trail ST240 machine Building Timelapse. from Kevin Smallman on Vimeo.
