Residents, bikers angered by council decision to demolish 'dirt church'

Residents and mountain bike riders are dismayed by Windsor City Council's decision to demolish a hidden, handmade mountain bike trail in Windsor's east end.

• Surprise motion to halt demolition of 'Dirt Church' BMX trail fails

• Hidden, handmade mountain bike track in Windsor safe - for now

"I don't know what to think," said trail user Jonathan Gignac. "This place saves people. I've said that before, I'll say it againit does. I've met the most amazing people here."

City administration plans to demolish the track that's tucked behind theGanatchio Trail called "Dirt Church" by some of its faithful sometime this week.

Over the years, the trail, which was built by community members,has seen several upgrades and now includes steps, warning signs and culverts.

Jan Wilson, the city's executive director of recreation and culture, said there are a number of reasons why the trail had to go.

"We feel that it is a hazard, it is not located in the correct spot it's in a naturalized area," she said. "Amenities that the city provides, we have to follow safety standard. So from a construction point of view and also a maintenance point of view."

Wilson said the city is looking to see what other municipalities have done to accommodate this type of park.

• Ottawa city council OK's mountain bike park on former Carlington ski hill

• Pumped at Fundy: Bikers' pump track nears completion at park

• Sugarloaf Bike Park offers sweet trails for cyclists

"I do want to work with the riders and find out what the best location would be," she said.

But for now, the jumps will be demolished and Wilson said the city will be monitoring the area in case any new ones go up.

"This last version is quite extensive, so we'll bebringingin some help to remove it," said Wilson.

Local resident Lisa Harris put up signs at the track, to show her support to the riders.

"So angry right now," she said to CBC News in a text message. "I think there are bigger things to deal with."

The beloved bike track won't be replaced any time soon. Wilson said it will take time, and there probably won't be a new track "by the spring."

"This place, I'm gonna lose my sanity if they take this place," saidGignac.