unique bike resort may be built in tucson

A project that could see the construction of a series of buildings making up a resort for bike-riders is being reviewed by planning officials in Pima County.

The bike resort, as developed by the Tucson-based El Cortijo LLC, would include a series of paths for bike riders over a 45-acre site off of South Old Spanish Trail.

The project, which the developer hopes would create both a national and international cycling destination, would include a hotel to be built to Platinum LEED standards, as well as a bike barn building that will house a café, bike rental and repair space, and meeting rooms.

Another structure at the site, called the Ranch House, will also include meeting rooms, as well as a restaurant and laundry room.

Three other structures have been proposed for the site: a reception building, a management building, and a maintenance building.

The developer of the project describes the project as an “eco-friendly resort.”

But some area residents have announced their opposite to the resort noting its proximity to the nearby Saguaro National Park.

A memo written last month by Leah McGinnis, superintendent of that park, noted that “understandably there is concern regarding the additional traffic that the Bike Ranch could generate on Old Spanish Trail near the entrance of the park.”

But she added that the current concept plan for the ranch would limit traffic through the use of shuttles and bicycles as the primary mode of transportation. 

A public hearing on the project is scheduled to be heard in early April by the Pima County Planning Department.

By Garry Boulard

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