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Youth development: New momentum at the southern recreation area thanks to a joint construction project and funding
The dirt park at the Süd recreation area underwent a complete overhaul during the Easter holidays. From April 8th to 11th, 16 children and teenagers aged 9 to 17 actively participated in redesigning the track. Using shovels, rakes, and excavators, they worked together with the specialist company Big Air from Olching to create new jumps and riding sections – entirely according to their own ideas.
Soil was delivered in advance for the work. After a briefing by Uli Dikreiter from Big Air, the so-called "re-shape" could begin. The loamy soil proved ideal for creating a stable and drivable track. Topsoil was also applied alongside the actual track for later planting.
The pump track was given larger gaps between the rollers, and the jump track was smoothed and equipped with more compacted jump elements. During test runs, the young people tested the results directly – and continuously contributed their ideas. The project culminated in a riding technique workshop on April 12th as a thank you for their great commitment.
Participation strengthens cohesion
“It’s great to see how much the young people have accomplished together,” said Pierre Dietrich from the city’s youth services department at the Blue Box. “We certainly hope that they will now enjoy using the new track, which they themselves helped to design.”
The new dirt park is open to everyone – subject to the rules of use (see below). The track will only be closed on the days of the equestrian club's events on April 26th, 27th and May 1st.
Background: Development and promotion of the dirt park
The dirt park was established in 2021 as an extension of the southern recreation area on the site of a former soccer field. The project was developed as part of the Democracy-Media Convention with students from the Gerhart Hauptmann School. A total of 856 cubic meters of clay soil were delivered free of charge in 56 truckloads. Construction was carried out by a specialist company in close coordination with the city administration.
For the current reshaping project, the city of Griesheim invested €15,000 from the Regional Equalization Fund. This state program provides €4.5 million annually to municipalities in the vicinity of Frankfurt Airport. Its aim is to promote measures to mitigate the effects of aircraft noise and improve the quality of life. Griesheim received a total of €215,000 in 2024.
Instructions for using the dirt park
- The dirt park can be used at your own risk during the day.
- Only suitable bicycles such as BMX, dirt bike and mountain bike are allowed.
- Helmets are mandatory. Additional protective gear is strongly recommended.
- The route must not be driven on or entered on foot when wet.
(GRIESHEIM – RED/PSG)
