I recently moved to East Point. I'm fortunate to live just a few blocks from this quirky, neato landmark.
I sent a photo of the velodrome to a friend. He replied: "East Point has a bike track?" Clearly this friend needs to visit our new n'hood soon to see why the term "bike track" is inappropriate. Yes, bikes traverse its lanes--but at a 45° angle! It's centrifugal force in action!
Moreover, Utoy Creek runs through the middle of the course, and I believe that this is the only velodrome extant where "a creek runs through it." Utoy Creek was the site of a significant Civil War battle. Even though I believe the fighting took place a few miles upstream, i have to award extra bonus coolness points for that!
Therefore, I'm sure you'll agree that calling this velodrome a "bike track" is far too mundane.
I had big plans before moving here to actually take a class and ride on the velodrome. However, as I am still sore and exhausted from schlepping boxes and furniture, that will not be happening anytime soon. If you are feeling energized and curious to try riding the 'drome yourself, Google "Dick Lane Velodrome" to check their website for beginner lessons.
Alternatively, you may simply wish to join the spectators in the concrete bleachers to catch a breeze as the bikers whiz by. It's not fancy, but something far better: a place that has survived not because developers spent vast $$$ to "brand" and rebuild it, but a venue where people dedicated to this offbeat sport compete, bond and have fun just for the love of it!
There aren't enough places like this in Atlanta. Come; see; encourage the racers. They're also the ones who raise money and volunteer to keep the place going. A velodrome doesn't maintain itself, you know. read more