Installing a PumpTrack involves several steps: choosing a location, having a design created, applying for a permit if necessary, and then construction and completion. The entire process takes between six months and a year on average, depending on the municipality and the complexity of the project. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about realizing a PumpTrack, from the initial plans to riding the first lap.
What do you need to build a PumpTrack?
To realize a PumpTrack, you need three things: a suitable location, a realistic budget, and support from the municipality or the recreation park. Without those three ingredients, you won't get very far. Fortunately, the barriers are lower than many people think.
The following applies to the location: a flat, paved or semi-paved surface of at least 400 to 600 m² is a good starting point. Larger tracks are of course possible, but even a compact track can serve a huge number of users. Think of a park corner, a piece of vacant municipal land, or a site next to a sports hall.
Public support is at least as important as physical space. Municipalities prefer to invest in facilities that are demonstrably used by a broad group. asphalt PumpTrack is unique in this respect: it is suitable for anyone with wheels, from small children on a balance bike to teenagers on a BMX and adults on a mountain bike or skateboard. That wide range makes it easier to obtain internal approval.
Finally: ensure you have a clear budget. A permanent asphalt PumpTrack is a serious investment, but also a sustainable one. You can read more about this later in this article.
How does the design process of a PumpTrack work?
The design process for a PumpTrack starts with an intake meeting, followed by a site analysis and the creation of a sketch design. Subsequently, the final design is developed and approved before construction begins. This process takes an average of two to four months.
In practice, it looks like this:
- Interview: Wishes, target group, location, and budget are mapped out.
- Location analysis: The subsurface, dimensions, and surroundings are assessed.
- Sketch design: A first visual proposal with the layout of the track.
- Final design: Technical specification with height profiles, materials, and dimensions.
- Approval: The client approves the design, after which the permit procedure can start.
Every design is custom-made. The shape of the track is tailored to the available space, the desired difficulty level, and the target audience. For example, a PumpTrack for a primary school neighborhood can look very different from a track at a recreation park that also wants to attract advanced riders.
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What permits are required for a PumpTrack?
In most cases, an environmental permit is required to construct a PumpTrack. Additionally, the track must comply with the Dutch Amusement and Playground Equipment Act (WAS) and be certified according to the NEN-EN14974 standard. Without this certification, the track may not be opened for public use.
The WAS legislation imposes the same requirements on a PumpTrack as on recognized playground equipment. This means that the track must be constructed according to established safety standards and must have a valid certificate upon completion. For municipalities, this is not extra hassle, but rather a guarantee: you know that the facility is safe and legally sound.
Whether an environmental permit is required depends on the location and local zoning plans. Some municipalities allow a PumpTrack to be constructed without a permit if the track remains within certain dimensions. This varies by situation, so it is wise to check with the municipality early in the process.
How long does the construction of a PumpTrack take?
The actual construction of an asphalt PumpTrack takes an average of one to two weeks, depending on the size of the track. However, the entire process from the initial consultation to completion takes an average of six months to a year, with the permitting procedure taking up the most time.
A general plan looks like this:
- Design and preparation: 2 to 4 months
- Permit procedure: 6 to 12 weeks (sometimes longer in case of objections)
- Build: 4 to 6 weeks
- Inspection and delivery: 4 to 6 weeks
The construction itself proceeds surprisingly quickly. Asphalt PumpTracks are laid by hand by specialized craftsmen, ensuring high quality and a precise finish for every gradual curve and hill. After construction, an inspection and certification follow, after which the track can be officially put into use.
Do you want to know what has already been achieved in your municipality? View our completed projects for concrete examples.
How much does it cost to install a PumpTrack?
The cost of installing an asphalt PumpTrack averages between €80.000 and €250.000, depending on the size, design, and site conditions. Smaller entry-level models are cheaper, while larger or more complex tracks cost more.
When assessing the costs, it is useful to look beyond the installation price. An asphalt PumpTrack has a lifespan of at least 20 years and low maintenance costs. Compared to wooden playground equipment or traditional skateparks, the total cost of ownership of a PumpTrack is often more favorable, especially when considering the number of users the track serves.
Asphalt is more durable than wood or concrete and retains its quality even with intensive use and varying weather conditions. This makes a PumpTrack an investment that pays off for years, without incurring major annual costs for repairs or replacement.
In addition to construction costs, there are also subsidy and financing opportunities. Municipalities can sometimes claim sports funds or provincial subsidies for physical activity facilities in public spaces. It is worthwhile to explore this early in the process.
Who is responsible for maintenance after delivery?
After completion, the owner of the PumpTrack, usually the municipality or the recreation park, is responsible for maintenance. An asphalt PumpTrack requires little maintenance, but an annual inspection and minor repairs are necessary to keep the track safe and in good condition.
Proper maintenance is not just a matter of safety; it also significantly extends the lifespan of the track. Small cracks or wear on the edges can be addressed early, before they become larger. That is much cheaper than waiting until major repairs are necessary.
Velosolutions offers annual inspection and maintenance for all PumpTracks. This can also be purchased via a maintenance contract, where a specialized team inspects the track annually and performs minor repairs. This ensures that the track always meets safety standards and you do not have to search for a party that knows how an asphalt PumpTrack is constructed.
How Velosolutions helps with installing a PumpTrack
Velosolutions guides municipalities and recreation parks through the entire process: from the initial consultation and design to construction, certification, and annual maintenance. As the market leader in the Netherlands with more than 100 completed PumpTracks and 12 years of experience, we know exactly what goes into a successful project.
- Custom design tailored to your location, target audience, and budget
- Full certification in accordance with WAS legislation and NEN-EN14974, including inspection certificate upon delivery
- 5 year warranty on all PumpTracks and a lifespan of at least 20 years
- Annual inspection and maintenance so that the track is always safe and in top condition, also available via a maintenance contract.
- Guidance for initiators who want to convince their municipality of a PumpTrack
- Part of a global network of 35 partners with proven expertise
Discover who we are and read more about our approach. Or request a no-obligation consultation and discuss the possibilities for your municipality or recreation park.
