Plans for an electric go-kart track just north of Mt. Pleasant are one step close to reality after Isabella County Commissioners approved a zoning change for the proposed property.
Land next to roller rink Northside Hansen Arena has already been purchased by owner Mark Hansen, waiting only on the rezoning decision for the bank to seal the deal.
Though the roller rink remains open all year including Thursday through Sunday right now, business is slower during the summer months as families travel and kids seek outdoor recreation opportunities, Hansen said.
“Summer is hard on my business,” he said. “We’re trying to draw more.”
The land was zoned for general commercial use -which excluded race tracks specifically- so Hansen asked the planning commission to recommend that the 2.3 acre parcel on North Mission near Jordan Road be rezoned to recreation commercial.
Ultimately earning that recommendation and the county commission’s anonymous support this week, Hansen can now begin the next phase of development which involves a site plan, permit applications and more public hearings.
The zoning change does not address specific use approvals, only what has the possibility of being allowed on the property.
Right now, Hansen said his plans will likely include an eight to 10 car asphalt go-kart track on the south side of the arena.
“My vision right now is battery-powered cars, that way there are no emissions and they’re noise-friendly,” he said. “I was originally going to go with dirt but they’re loud and you’re always out there fixing the track, the track gets dusty…long term, asphalt is better for everyone.”
Beyond that, Hansen isn’t quite ready to share many more details on his go-kart plans though his vision doesn’t end there; someday, he’d like to see a miniature golf course on the other side of the roller rink.
“Everyone has dreams and visions,” he said. “It all depends on the go-kart and rink. We sill have obstacles.”
Hansen hopes that all things approved, he can start to build the track this fall and finish any lingering tasks in the spring of next year.
Final steps would include laying asphalt with a tentative opening date in June of 2019.
