The Emery Park BMX Track in Wichita, Kansas was recently the victim of a theft that damaged the park. Thieves made off with helmets and at least 200 feet of copper wiring, some of it cut at the base of poles and pulled it from an underground conduit. The thieves also used sledge hammers to break down doors, which will need to be replaced.
Police say the theft of the copper wiring is part of a trend fueled by higher scrap-metal prices.
The Emery Park BMX Track is located on park land owned by the city, but rented by a non-profit group called GEAR (Group Effort Association for Riders), which was also responsible for building, maintaining and running the park. That group does not have insurance to cover the damage or replace the stolen property, which they estimate to be at least $5,000, not including labor.
The group is asking for donations to help them rebuild the park. If you can offer any support, including material or labor, please contact the group at kansas_bmx@cox.net or 316-529-2582. Monetary donations can be sent to:
GEAR Inc, DBA Emery Park BMX
PO BOX #16425
Wichita, KS 67216
See also:
Wichita Eagle: Thieves ravage BMX track
KAKE TV: Wichita BMX Park Hit by Thieves
