Xtreme Opposition

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Updated: 10:13 AM Dec 1, 2007 Xtreme Opposition Augusta County A neighborhood is banding together in opposition to a proposed extreme sports park in Augusta County. Posted: 6:25 PM Nov 30, 2007 Reporter: Shane Symolon Email Address: ssymolon@whsv.com

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A neighborhood is banding together in opposition to a proposed extreme sports park in Augusta County, because they fear dirt bikes will be too noisy, and carry dust towards their homes.

The development sits just across Interstate 64 from the proposed site of the park at Expoland. A sound test with 30 bikes at the proposed site is slated for next week. But aside from the noise, residents fear their property values are at risk.

"We're not opposed to things that people want to do or activities for children, but we really are quite upset about the noise we're sure will be coming full blast right across the highway here to us," says resident Joan Mortner.

After the tests next week, a zoning meeting will take place that afternoon.

Latest Comments

Posted by: Joe Location: Mansfield, OH on Dec 8, 2007 at 07:25 AM

I have family in Churchville and am visiting here. I have ridden bikes for 35 years. If I was on I-64 and looked over and saw an attractive, well kept sports park, I would think that I must be passing through a community that really cares about their youth. How wonderful of these two gentlemen to include the BMX, Soap Box Derby, and Skateboarding events, as well. In my 35 years of experience, I can attest to the fact that all these sports are the most family oriented functions. I personally grew up to be a well-rounded adult from the discipline and respect I learned from Motocross competion. I must reiterate Terry Argenbright's statement on the noise at the starting gate where he plans to build the sound barrier. This is the only time that the bikes will be clumped together for about a minute. Once, they start to race and spread out, there will be even less noise. Realize that Supercross is an "indoor" arena motocross sport with the same level of noise and people comfortably attend.

Posted by: Brion Location: Churchville on Dec 8, 2007 at 06:49 AM

First, dirt bikes are FAR less noisy than Monster Trucks! Expo has hosted motocross events during the county fairs and I have never heard "neighbor" complaints. Did you hear it, did you even know it was going on? I bet NOT! For those who called the track an "eyesore", see what's there now. Rusted machinery, brush, tall grass, etc. How lovely! Doug and Terry plan on picnic tables, fountains, etc. It will be very neat and attractive. One of the kids asked if the neighbors were "Mean" or just didn't like kids? Anyone want to answer him? It's very hard to explain to a young child how some adults want to destroy their dream of this park. As to the heavy flow of traffic at that exit, only a small amount would be added during the week. Big events would be on weekends when there is less work congestion. Mr. Rittenhouse states that this is THE MOST THREATENING thing to hit the county! HOW VERY, VERY SAD! What about murders, gangs, drugs, drunk drivers, domestic violence. This park is worse?

Posted by: Amanda Location: Staunton on Dec 4, 2007 at 12:10 PM

Poeple who choose to live in high traffic areas should be aware of the possiable outcomes, i live by the park but do not complain when i hear park activites going on. There have always been numerous activities at EXPO such as the yearly dirtbike race, truck shows, tractor pulls, etc, Did they not realize this? It is ridiculous that someone has finally decided to help our youth and selected an unused location that fits perfectly for the event and people who choose to live on interstate, by a hospital, by a tractor trailer workplace, by the fairgrounds, and so on can really not complain about dirt and noise. This is supposed to be a chance for the kids to develop skills, make friends, and have a safe secure place to ride, I give all my support and hope that this idea is accepted and neighbors realize this track is not going to cause a problem and what the real main point behind this is, SOMEWHERE KIDS CAN ENJOY!

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