Editor's note: This article has been corrected. See below
First, there was disc golf in Bidwell Park, now, there could be paragliding.
The Chico City Council decided Sept. 2 to wait for an environmental impact report, paid for by a local hang gliding and paragliding association, before approving paragliding in Upper Bidwell Park.
Paragliding involves a pilot sitting in a harness beneath a fabric wing, taking off from a height and gliding on wind currents.
The hang gliding and paragliding association will pay $6,400 for the environmental report.
"I think it's great that an organization is willing to front the cost," Council Member Mary Flynn said.
She liked the idea, but was concerned with the possibility of vendors and other businesses selling their goods at Upper Bidwell Park, she said.
Council Member Ann Schwab was neutral on the idea, but a "huge piece" of her decision will be based on the results of the report, she said. If the association wants to take a chance and spend the money, it can do so.
Second-year student Will Brown has been flying paragliders since 2001, he said. He and others argued at the council meeting that paragliding is a sustainable sport, as nothing has to be built or changed.
Sierra Club member Grace Marvin had a different take. She reiterated the position of her organization, which was concerned with liability issues and the perceived trend of opening the park to unnecessary development. She asked the council to keep Upper Bidwell Park wild.
Martin Roland, assistant coordinator for Adventure Outings, doesn't think that will be a problem, he said. There are about three residents who want to paraglide in Bidwell Park.
Roland doesn't anticipate people coming to Chico to paraglide because there are other areas within a two-hour drive.
Until the report comes back, paragliding is still illegal under city regulations.
But Roland looks forward to possibly enjoying his sport locally.
"It's the ability to fly," Roland said. "It's a dream."
Donald Bunce can be reached at dbunce@theorion.com
The article incorrectly stated that Chico City Council is considering both paragliding and hang gliding. The Orion's reporters strive for accuracy. We recognize that mistakes will occur, but we treat every error very seriously. If you feel a correction needs to be made, e-mail the managing editor at managingeditor@theorion.com
Be the first to comment on this article!