PORTAGE, MI -- Portage plans to spend about $103,000 to build a bicycle skills course at a neighborhood park.

The new 175-foot by 131-foot space at Lexington Green Park will feature two tracks connected together, one geared toward beginners and another for more experienced riders, featuring ramps, tunnels and berms, according to plans presented to the Portage City Council.

The council voted to approve the recommendation to authorize the project during the Oct. 23 meeting.

Portage City Manager Larry Shaffer said the track is "kind of like motocross without the motor."

The course built by Progressive Bike Ramps will include a "pump track," a continuous loop of berms and smooth mounds meant to be ridden on without pedaling, that can also be used with skateboards and roller blades.

City officials also considered a splash pad for the spot and brought the idea to residents, Shaffer said, but a neighborhood group presented the idea for a bicycle course instead.

Residents told city officials the track would be a good place for kids to ride their bikes, and a fun place to ride.

"From what we understand young people love it," he said. "We think it will be quite the addition to the recreation attributes in the community."

Portage bringing bike tracks to city park 5 Gallery: Portage bringing bike tracks to city park

The course will join tennis and pickle ball courts at the park.

Shaffer said he is happy residents gave the input for the park addition.

"It's so important to get out there and interact with the public to make sure the things you think make sense, make sense to them also," he said.