DEC investigation uncovers additional damage in Whiteface bike course construction
New York’s Whiteface Mountain Bike Track Construction Sparks Environmental Concerns
Environmental Violations Uncovered at Whiteface Mountain
In an ambitious bid to construct a World Cup downhill bike track by October, the agency responsible for overseeing New York’s winter sports facilities encountered significant regulatory issues. The Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA), which spearheaded the development at Whiteface Mountain, faced allegations of multiple violations as highlighted by the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Impacts on Forest Preserve and Regulations
The DEC’s notice pointed out more extensive infractions than initially disclosed, emphasizing the unauthorized tree cutting and broader pathways than previously proposed. Originally, it was planned that the construction would occur within existing trail boundaries without removing trees. However, the actual implementation contradicted these intentions, leading to at least 32 trees being felled and violations regarding stormwater discharge permits.
DEC’s Response and Conditions for ORDA
Joseph M. Zalewski, DEC’s regional director, emphasized the protection of forest preserves, which are safeguarded under the state’s “forever wild” policy. Despite the track’s completion on September 12, the DEC mandates its use during the anticipated October 3-5 mountain biking competitions, provided ORDA meets five specific conditions:
- Comprehensive documentation of work performed on the project.
- Development of a restoration plan for the affected areas.
- Appointment of a dedicated staff member to ensure compliance with environmental regulations of the Adirondack Park Agency and DEC.
- Mapping all permissible trails within ORDA-managed forest preserves, including prominent locations like Belleayre, Gore, Mount Van Hoevenberg, and Whiteface.
- Creation and submission of an updated memorandum of understanding to enhance communication and project planning with DEC.
ORDA’s Accountability and Plan for Correction
ORDA CEO Ashley Walden acknowledged the procedural errors, attributing them to internal communication lapses and process deficiencies. Alongside ORDA Board Chair Joe Martens, Walden accepted responsibility for the oversight but did not address the specific violations highlighted by Zalewski.
The Future of Whiteface Mountain Facilities
While Walden expressed uncertainty about the potential closure of trails ahead of the November skiing season, she confirmed ongoing discussions with DEC on restoration plans. ORDA has committed to filling the vacant role of environmental compliance and sustainability coordinator to meet DEC’s compliance conditions.
Community Reaction to the Development
The altered natural landscape sparked criticism from environmental groups like Protect the Adirondacks. Executive Director Claudia Braymer highlighted concerns over the unauthorized development within the protected reserve, insisting on transparency and public engagement in future restoration efforts.
Amidst these challenges, ORDA remains under scrutiny to align their infrastructure projects with environmental obligations, ensuring future ventures respect both ecological imperatives and recreational developments.
