Barr worked with the City of Chisholm and the Minnesota Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation to transform an inactive iron-mine pit and surrounding property (covering approximately 650 acres of public land) into the Redhead Mountain Bike Park, which attracts both residents and tourists. We provided pre-construction GIS mapping and conceptual design services; facilitated a unique project-bidding and phasing process; prepared an Environmental Assessment Worksheet and a construction SWPPP; and conducted a botanical survey and a Phase 1A cultural-resources literature review.
A 20- to 25-mile trail network serves as a regional mountain-biking destination, featuring natural-surface, purpose-built, single-track trails between 2 and 6 feet wide. The trails are intended for non-motorized bicycles, although hikers, runners, and snowshoers may use them. Construction was completed in 2020.
The park is adjacent to existing recreational facilities, including the Minnesota Discovery Center, St. Louis County fairgrounds, and Mesabi Trail. The park is administered by the City of Chisholm, with operational and maintenance assistance from the Iron Range Off-Road Cyclists, the local chapter of the nonprofit International Mountain Bicycling Association.