'Save the Velodrome' Successful; Resurfacing to Start in July

(Northbrook, Ill., April 23) - In a bittersweet vote, the Northbrook Cycle Committee has chosen to suspend the 2004 season at the Ed Rudolph Northbrook Velodrome. Although this will mean a year without racing at the historic venue, the decision paves the way for resurfacing to begin in July, rather than next September.

"It was a tough decision to make," said Peter Janunas, NCC president. "Beginning the resurfacing project in July allows us to complete the project before winter sets in. With the unpredictable Chicago weather, there was a fear that beginning the project in September may have meant jeopardizing the start of the 2005 season."

While he recognizes that the Chicago-area cycling community may be disappointed in the choice, Janunas said he thinks they'll understand. "We are now confident that resurfacing will happen," he said. "So even though we may lose a year, we'll be back in 2005 on a brand-new track, ready to race faster than ever."

Supporters of the Velodrome have raised nearly $230,000 since August of last year. It was then that the Northbrook Park District, which owns the Velodrome, announced that unless improvements were made the track may shut down permanently. The Park District charged the cycling community with raising half the funds needed, and the response from cyclists from across the country solidified the future of the facility.

"The Park District has received a bid for the improvements project," Janunas said. "The acceptance vote will be May 26, and it appears we have raised our half of the needed funds. But because of other community events, work cannot begin until after July 4, and we thought it best to suspend racing to ensure the project starts as quickly as possible."

A dedicated group of volunteers began the arduous task of attempting to patch the track in the beginning of April, a process Janunas said he was thankful for. "Ultimately, though, their efforts may not have been enough; the track is in such bad shape," he said. "Instead, we can begin anew and allow the project to go ahead full steam."

Planning is already underway to determine an alternate venue for District Championship and other important events normally on the Northbrook calendar. The NCC will continue to work with the Park District as the project commences, ensuring that the facility will be poised for a long and successful life once improvements are made.